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Westhab Honors County Achievements

This story has been updated from an earlier version.

ELMSFORD, N.Y. – For 30 years, Westhab created affordable housing for Westchester residents in need. On Tuesday, supporters took a moment to celebrate those achievements.

Westhab commemorated its 30th anniversary Tuesday night by honoring three Westchester County Executives; current office holder Rob Astorino and predecessors Andy Spano and Andrew O'Rourke. 

"Westhab would not be here today if it weren't for the support of County Executive Andy O'Rourke back in 1981," said Bob Miller, the first and only president of Westhab. "He was the first County Executive to engage the private sector to accomplish the county's housing goals."

Over the past three decades, Westhab has helped over 5,000 families find a home and move out of shelters. They have restored or built over 2,000 units and used $84 million to aid the Westchester community. They also give support to homeless or at-risk children by offering youth programs, and continue to help homeless adults find jobs.When Andy Spano became County Executive in 1998, he developed the ideas put forth by O'Rourke, and, consequently, Westchester's homelessness was decreased by 75 percent, said Westhab.

"It was during this time that Westhab refocused its efforts to help adults and children break the cycle of homelessness and poverty," said Miller.

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