Habitat shines a light on community

Published 8:00 am Wednesday, October 19, 2016

After nearly a decade, dirt is moving and progress is underway on a new local home courtesy of Habitat for Humanity. Ground was recently broken on the local Habitat’s first new build since 2008. Now, thanks to the efforts of many, one local family will soon have a new place to call home, and hopefully also a newfound appreciation for giving back to others.

The economic recession that hit back in 2008-2009 slowed Habitat’s efforts as donations dwindled, but things are looking up for the local chapter of the organization. Habitat has experienced some dark months but a new light is now glowing.

As Habitat’s outlook grows, so too, does the local community’s. Although this is the first build from scratch that the local chapter has undertaken in several years, it still has had an impact. Volunteers with the local Habitat have worked in areas on home improvements and taken part in home refurbishing and revitalization efforts in the local community while partnering with other local organizations.

According to Habitat data, 48.5 million Americans live in poverty, impacting where they reside. Worldwide, the percentage of people without access to decent, stable housing is rising. Habitat for Humanity International works to establish affordable housing all across the globe. Habitat helps provide decent, affordable housing through volunteers who help with builds.

Housing applicants are screened based on need and must have a steady enough job to pay back the Habitat loan. Those who are selected must also fulfill a minimum number of sweat equity hours (300) on either their home or volunteering to build a home for someone else.

Fulfilling the need for decent housing helps build and repair communities by offering stability for families, particularly children. It also helps create a greater sense of neighborhood pride, which hopefully extends throughout the community.

By joining with Habitat’s efforts, there is a greater strength, the community succeeds, and dreams are hopefully fulfilled.