ORANGE, NJ – October 31, 2019 – Ernest Williams, chairman and longtime commissioner of the Housing Authority of the City of Orange, was acknowledged for his selfless service to the community when the Family Assistance Resource Center honored him with their Trevor Stephen Community Service Award. The Fifth Annual Award Recognition Dinner took place recently at Libretti’s Restaurant in Orange.
“Ernest Williams has been an integral part of the success of the Housing Authority of the City of Orange,” said Dr. Walter McNeil, HACO’s executive director. “His commitment to his community is evident in the amount of time and effort he puts into volunteering. He is an inspiration to all of us.”
Williams received the Trevor Stephen Award in recognition of his volunteer activities serving the needs of families and fire and natural disaster victims. FARC, a 501c3 non-profit, was founded in 2010 in response to a devastating fire that left 100 families homeless. Since that time, the organization has created programs and services that meet the needs of families and individuals in crisis such as access to clothing, footwear, furniture, household goods, bed and bath linens, food, and housing resources assistance.
“I am honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Williams. “As a member of the community, I have always felt it was important to lend a helping hand to my neighbors in need, which is something the Family Assistance Resource Center does on a regular basis. It is my privilege to be part of their work.”
Ernest Williams
Trevor Stephen was a licensed electrician and plumber who devoted long hours to FARC as a volunteer. He passed away suddenly in 2015. The award was established in his honor.
About the Orange Housing Authority
The City of Orange Housing Authority works to transform the City of Orange by providing safe, livable and affordable housing that promotes the development of communities. At the Orange Housing Authority, participants are not statistics, they are neighbors. The OHA knows the community and tailors programs to better serve the participant’s needs. Whether it is a search for housing, assistance with foreclosure or neighborhood development, the Orange Housing Authority stands ready to offer its services to all residents.
