The search will begin soon for Escambia County’s newest Habitat for Humaity family.
Executive director Lisa Tindell said a family selection orientation meeting will be held on Tues., July 28, at 4:30 p.m. at the Brewton Habitat Restore on Douglas Avenue.
“This is the first step one must take if they are interested in becoming a Habitat family,” Tindell said. “At this meeting, you’ll get all the information behind the Habitat program and what it takes to become a partner family.”
Tindell said applications will also be distributed after the meeting.
HFH is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing organization dedicated to building simple, decent, affordable housing in partnership with people in need. To date, the local chapter has serviced 23 families.
“And now, we’re excited to be looking for our 24th,” Tindell said.
Sites available include those in Brewton and Atmore, she said.
“Currently, there are no lots available in Flomaton, but we are looking,” she said.
To qualify, families must meet certain guidelines, including income, one’s actual housing need based on the suitability of one’s current home; the willingness to partner with Habitat and one’s ability to repay the mortgage loan.
Families must work at least 400 “sweat equity hours.”
“But that shouldn’t scare anyone away from applying because those hours can be earned in a number of ways,” Tindell said. “It can sound daunting, but we’re very cooperative with all of families to get those hours, and they can be obtained through a variety of ways such as attending a class on financial management.”
The family’s annual household income must be at least $14,000, but no greater than $28,000.
“You also have to be able to afford a Habitat house payment, which is about $400 a month, and still meet your financial obligations,” Tindell said.
The Tuesday meeting will consist of a short presentation, about 15 minutes or so about Habitat, and then, families can meet with a representative who will go step-by-step through the application process.
Those who have previously applied for a Habitat home are required to attend Tuesday’s meeting to reapply, Tindell said.
Those with questions may call 251.867.0095.