Building
Dreams Habitat For Humanity Families Know There’s No Place Like Home
Home ownership may be the great American dream, but for some people it’s more like a fantasy, especially during these economically pressed times. ¶ This is where Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County steps in: As a last resort, low-income families that can’t afford homes often turn to the faith-based nonprofit organization that fervently believes everyone should have a decent, safe and affordable place to live. ¶ “These are people who want to better their lives but have been disappointed and let down by a lot of people,” says Associate Executive Director Mike Williams. People like Ruth James, who fled to a shelter with her daughter after escaping an abusive relationship. Or Lakesia Harris, whose home is so cramped she sleeps in a chair so her two daughters can share the bed. ¶ Since the organization was founded in May 1991 it’s built 95 homes for needy families. The goal is to reach 100 by next April and then build another 100 by 2017. ¶ Recipients are people who can’t qualify for conventional house financing. To receive a home, families must be residents of Boca Raton, Boynton Beach or Delray Beach for at least one year, first-time owners, have a satisfactory credit rating and a stable income. They’re selected based on need and ability to pay the mortgage (100 percent of the principal goes into a revolving fund used to construct more homes). They must also be willing to put in 500 “sweat equity” hours helping to build not just their own home, but homes for others, as well as attend educational workshops. ¶ And while creating housing is vital to Habitat for Humanity’s task, it’s the families that inhabit these homes that remain the most important part of the organization’s mission. ¶ “We’ve made a positive impact on their lives,” says Williams. ¶ Indeed. Meet five grateful recipients—some already living in their homes, others whose homes are now being built—who share their poignant tales of struggle and renewal. Written By Linda
Haase
Photography by
ren Dittfield
November 2011
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