Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County has helped over 20 families locally since 1991. The organization runs as an affiliate from the national branch, securing the entirety of its funding through local donations and efforts. Today, the organization is in dire need of assistance from locals in order to help others in need.
There are many misconceptions surrounding Habitat for Humanity. The organization partners with families and the community to provide safe, affordable housing for those who would otherwise not be able to become homeowners. According to Executive Director Mickey Kaufman, many people have a misunderstanding in how a family is chosen for a home and the process that takes place after.
According to Kaufman, while some chosen by Habitat may receive temporary financial assistance from governmental programs, most are working people who have fallen hard times. Typically, those chosen by the organization have an annual income that is less than half of the local median income in their community.
Kaufman notes prospective homeowners are chosen based on three criteria: need; ability to repay the mortgage; and a willingness to partner with Habitat. Homes are not simply “given away,” instead future homeowners embark on a path to ownership. Those chosen provide a down payment, 250 hours of “sweat equity” on the construction of a home as well as a commitment to pay the mortgage payments, which are kept affordable.
“As we help neighborhoods, we help the whole county,” explained Kaufman. “About 10 percent of the population in Kosciusko County lives in sub-standard housing. If you are a donor of time and treasure, thank you for making an impact in our community. If you are not yet a donor, we need you.”
Kaufman noted that though Kosciusko County has a healthy economy, ranking 13th in the state in terms of per capita income, donations and partnerships with the organization has been limited. Though Habitat provides homes for those in need, creates jobs and helps raise local property values, the organization currently does not have the funds necessary to finish to projects that have been started.
Two homes are sitting in wait of the funds necessary to complete construction. Because of this, families are unable to move into their new residence. Though Kaufman notes this is very discouraging, she also states she has not given up hope others will join in to support the cause. In Warsaw, $10,000 is needed to restore a home so that it is ready for move in. In North Webster, a total of $25,000 is needed to complete a home that is currently sitting vacant, awaiting the final touches to complete the project.
Kaufman noted the organization is currently seeking the assistance of others as project donors as well as core donors who give money monthly toward the organization. The average cost to build a home in Kosciusko County with three bedrooms, no basement, no garage and one bathroom is approximately $80,000. Kaufman states the organization aims to build four homes per year with a total of 18 built by 2017. The mortgages on these homes will produce an monthly income of $5,400 to provide for operating and service costs for the organization to utilize on future builds.
In addition the organization is currently seeking a pick up truck to assist on site or in picking up items for donation.
Volunteers to help brainstorm, create local connections or assist with builds or office work are also a much needed resource of the organization.
To help get involved or donate to Habitat, call Kaufman at 574-269-4104