Habitat for Humanity

A few months ago I began volunteer work with the River City Habitat for Humanity. I am on the Family Support Committee, which basically means I am partnered with a new family after they have been approved to get a home. It is my responsibility to offer general support as they learn about their new role as a homeowner.

Like many of you, I had the misconception that Habitat gives homes to families in need. Boy, was I wrong! The families DO have to pay for their home, but they get it at cost because it is built by volunteers. In addition, they have to contribute several hundred hours of "sweat equity." They start by working on someone else's home, and then once they pass their probationary period they get to work on the home being built for them.

One of the best things about this program is that it is mandatory to attend a monthly meeting where various topics relating to homeownership are presented. These topics include insurance, fire safety, financing and budgets, and more. So, not only is Habitat helping people get a great deal on a home, but they also teach them what they need to know once they get it.

I believe this is so important to our community and they do a great job!