Two families will soon be moving into new homes in Parry Sound.
They will be the latest recipients of affordable housing by Habitat for Humanity. The charity builds homes with volunteer labour and those families moving in must also donate 500 hours of sweat equity to help qualify for the new residence.
The latest build at 24 Addie Street is nearly complete. A donation of $5,000 from Shaw Almex has allowed the siding to be installed on the semi-detached home.
Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North Chief Operating Officer Meghan Smith says giving the keys to the new homeowners is always one of the highlights of completing a project.
“Absolutely, that is always the most heart-warming ceremony we have in any Habitat build,” she contends. “The build has been so supported by the community, it’s wonderful to have the entire community join in in that celebration.”
The two families moving into the home this fall have been selected. The Anderson and Norrie families have been putting in the hard hours on the current build. They are excited to take their first steps toward homeownership.
The donation from Shaw Almex was the result of the ninth annual golf tournament at Rocky Crest Golf Club earlier this year.
HFHOGN CEO, Kimberley Woodcock, pointed to the work of Shaw Almex CEO Tim Shaw for his generosity.
“We thank Tim Shaw and the entire team at Shaw Almex for their support in helping to build homes for local partner families in Parry Sound,” said Woodcock. “Our homeownership program and build projects rely on community support like this donation. Donations such as this help us create strength, stability, and self-reliance for our families.”
While moving new families into homes is a sign of a job completed, there are more projects on the go says Smith.
“We currently have five projects underway that will serve seven families,” she reports. “We always want to be able to do more. We are looking at strategies and ways to do that as well.”
The process of becoming the recipient of a Habitat Home is extensive. A 12-page application, credit check, and references ensure that a good fit is found for the new homes. Those successful applicants must have the ability to pay an affordable mortgage.