A world where everyone has a decent place to live is something that Habitat for Humanity strives for within the community here in Washington County.
Habitat for Humanity Washington County is a local nonprofit that offers a variety of services and events for the community. The main focus of the organization is providing affordable housing to the residents of Washington County. It does this by offering programs that construct homes and offer 0% interest mortgages.
Habitat has been active in the community since 1991. The mission of the organization is, seeking to put God’s love into action. There is a “ReStore” located at 1421 E. 15th St. in Fayetteville.
The ReStore sells household supplies, building materials, furniture, and much more. The items sold are sourced from businesses such as Lowe’s alongside accepting donations from private individuals. The manager of the ReStore, Vinna Francis, is in charge of all operations within the store.
“The proceeds support operating expenses for Habitat for Humanity ReStore and help contribute to the building of homes here in Washington County.”, Vinna said.
According to Vinna, the main service offered by Habitat is the affordable housing home ownership program. The requirements for eligibility are available online at https://www.habitatwashingtoncoar.org/. Habitat has currently finished 57 homes in the local community.
Vinna said, “the families selected for the program get to learn hands-on about constructing and maintaining their home. The families do sweat equity hours to earn their home and they go to community training events.”
A very unique volunteer program is offered by Habitat called Women Build. The mission of the Women Build Team is to empower and equip women to build homes, communities and hope. Over 90% of the homes built by Habitat in Washington County are owned by single mothers. This program is available to recipients of the affordable housing program, or any woman in the community.
Habitat offers a variety of community wide training events. The classes offered range from home buying tips to will writing and estate planning. They occur once a month and are free to attend. The events are sponsored by various businesses and organizations across the county.
Isabella Townsend, a Habitat employee, said, “the events teach things that are needed in life that are sometimes hard to learn about on your own.” Habitat encourages anyone interested in the community to attend these programs. The calendar of events can be located inside the ReStore or by contacting Vinna via email at vinnaf@habitatwashingtoncoar.org.
