(09/28/06) GORDON HEIGHTS - A family, once homeless, took the keys to a brand new Gordon Heights house Thursday, thanks to Habitat for Humanity.

After living without a home for one and a half years, Christina Quinitchette and her children say they are thrilled to own a new 4-bedroom ranch in Suffolk. Volunteers from her work, church and community teamed up with non-profit Habitat for Humanity to build the Quinitchette?s new home. The building materials cost $75,000, which will be paid back with an interest free 20-year mortgage.

The program receives about 100 applicants per home constructed. This is the 103rd house built by Habitat for Humanity in Suffolk County.