Habitat for Humanity Sault Ste. Marie & Area (HFHSSMA) is now accepting applications for two single-family homes at 45 and 47 Wellington Street that are set to be built in 2021.
“The pandemic has demonstrated how critical it is for families to have adequate housing. Habitat exists to do just that. We build safe, decent, and affordable homes for families in need. Now more than ever, families need this,” states Frank Bentrovato, Chair of Habitat for Humanity Sault Ste. Marie and Area.
Family selection is based on three areas. First, applicants must demonstrate that they are in need of safe, affordable housing. Second, there must be sufficient income to cover monthly mortgage payments. Typically, Habitat mortgages include property taxes and have a maximum 30-year term and are set between 25 – 30 percent of total household income. Third, applicants must be willing to partner with HFHSSMA by contributing 500 hours of voluntary service to the organization.
Successful applicants will take part in HFHSSMA’s Affordable Homeownership Program, which provides individuals and families the opportunity to access a zero-interest, geared-to-income mortgage.
“We have modified our program to allow for more home-based volunteer activities and all our education sessions are through video conferencing now. We are prepared to modify our program even more if necessary. It’s vital that all our families stay healthy and safe,” says Allyson Schmidt, Chair of the Family Services Committee.
Community members interested in applying for one of these homes must submit their expression of interest by August 3rd at 4.00 pm. Please visit www.habitatsault.ca to submit online. Paper copies are available at the ReStore on 32 White Oak Drive.
Despite setbacks caused by the coronavirus pandemic, HFHSSMA will break ground on their upcoming Oakwood build in the near future. This is Habitat’s first tri-generational build, serving Tracy Poliquin along with her mother and daughter. It will also be the organization’s first fully accessible home.
As a non-profit, HFHSSMA relies on the generosity of volunteers, donors, corporate sponsors, and the community in order to achieve its mission. Habitat is still seeking sponsors for the Oakwood build, and encourages those who are interested to contact Pauline Pennett, Resource Coordinator, at pauline@habitatsault.ca.