Latest Habitat achievement should be lauded

Published 9:00 am Saturday, September 29, 2018

The local arm of Habitat for Humanity is embarking a significant achievement and a local family is preparing for the beginning of a new way of life in their brand new home. 

On Monday, local Habitat officials will join the celebration of World Habitat Day by turning over the keys to a local family upon the completion of the latest finished Habitat build. 

This marks the first home dedication for Habitat MBC since the recession hit the area back in 2008-2009.

Each year nationally, the Habitat for Humanity International works to establish affordable housing all across the globe. Today, Habitat has helped build or repair more than 600,000 houses and served more than 3 million people around the world. Locally, this new home marks the 19th completed home, and it wouldn’t have been possible without a lot of hard work and dedication from several volunteers, board members and contributors. 

The families contributed as well. Potential homeowners can’t make too much that they qualify for a traditional loan, but must have a steady enough job to pay back the Habitat loan. In addition to the required minimum sweat equity hours (250) that all applicants must complete helping others, the selection committee does home visits to evaluate how the current residence is kept up as well as establishing need level.

Indeed, this 19th home is a milestone achievement. And there are plans for more in the very near future, with the organization aiming to build two additional houses very soon. 

As quality family housing is an increasing need, organizations like Habitat should be commended for the work they accomplish, and they can’t do it alone.

As the number of quality residences for families increases so too, does the overall quality of life for the community at-large. 

When neighborhood quality of life improves, so too, do other factors that impact community. Community-wide vision and buy-in can bring forth change and lasting accomplishments. It is possible through collective effort and vision.