viewpoint Building Homes While Building Community Spirit Giving back to community is an essential part of many people’s self-care mantra. Whether you’re a savvy and experienced construction professional or just want to pitch in wherever needed, helping to build a home for someone you don’t even know can be such a fulfilling experience. Nothing contributes more to a healthy life than a structurally sound roof over your head, preferably in an affordable home in a safe neighborhood. When you have financial security, you’re better equipped to take care of yourself, your family, and contribute to your community. Indeed, there is ample data to suggest that children perform better in school and parents remain productive members of society when they have a mortgage to pay and property to maintain and protect. That’s the philosophy behind Habitat for Humanity of South Hampton Roads (SHR), one of over 1,400 affiliate organizations of an Atlanta-based nonprofit that began in 1976 and now exists in every state and 69 other countries. There are also 875 Habitat ReStores, including two in South Hampton Roads that accept and sell used furniture, appliances and building materials—with proceeds going back to local Habitat for Humanity projects. Habitat has an amazing story, but the history is nothing compared to the “present” for a significant number of families, many of them led by single mothers that strive for the security that homeownership offers. Yet Habitat doesn’t give homes away. Applicants, like everyone else, must qualify to purchase their homes based on income and be approved for a mortgage with monthly payments geared to their income. They also must attend classes on financial literacy and home maintenance and then once construction begins, contribute 200 hours of sweat equity by
[ by sara jo rubin ]
Helping to build a home for someone you don’t even know can be such a fulfilling experience.
KEVIN LARKIN
Launched in 1991, Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build initiative focuses on women coming together to build stronger, safer communities. The 3rd annual SHR Women Build event takes place this coming summer.
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feb-apr 2022 | boulevard
