CRYSTAL RIVER —Haliann Fanizza and her daughter knew Thursday would be a special day as they received their keys to their Habitat for Humanity of Citrus County (HFHCC) house.

Publix Super Markets Charities (PSMC) and Publix Super Markets made the special day sweeter when representatives from Publix Super Markets Store No. 1616 Rainbow Square Shopping Center presented a $45,000 check for a partial house sponsorship, which helped fund the Fanizza family’s new home.

In January, HFHCC was one of 125 Habitat for Humanity affiliates throughout the Southeast chosen as a recipient of grant funding to support nonprofit housing initiatives from Publix Super Markets Charities (PSMC).

“I am thankful to Publix Super Markets and Publix Super Markets Charities for being proactive in the community and helping people like myself get homes,” Fanizza said. “They’re a great supermarket and it’s awesome to see their support throughout the community and their partnership with HFHCC.”

Public Super Market Store No. 1616 employees Josh Williamson, Chris Valerioti and Brittany Swain were on hand for Habitat’s newest homeowner, Haliann Fanizza and her daughter’s, house dedication Thursday, May 30.

PSMC has been a long-time, steadfast supporter of HFHCC, often providing grants for partial home builds.

“We are grateful for the continued support of Publix Super Markets Charities and Publix,” said George Rusaw, HFHCC president/CEO. “From grant funding to volunteerism, they’ve played an important role for our organization within the Citrus community. Their generosity enables us to continue our mission and provide solid foundations for families through homeownership.”

“Publix Super Markets Charities is proud to continue the legacy of George Jenkins by supporting Habitat for Humanity affiliates and other nonprofits focused on helping people achieve home ownership,” said PSMC Executive Director Kelly Williams-Puccio. “The funds received by HFHCC will help give families a place to call home, providing them with stability and strengthening the Citrus County community.”

HFHCC is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry that seeks to put God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, neighborhoods and hope. We work to eliminate substandard housing for people of all backgrounds, races and religions by providing simple, decent, affordable housing to those who have a need, ability to pay and willingness to partner. For more information, visit www.habitatcc.org or call

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