Broadcast on August 26
Kevin Smith, Executive Director of Habitat For Humanity of New Castle County, discussed the organization, a non-denominational faith-based group seeking to place low income families into homes and preserve existing neighborhoods and communities. We discussed the lack of affordable housing for families within the area, and the amount of sub-standard homes. He described how HHNCC works with individuals to make them homeowners, they undergo financial literacy classes, learning how to bank and budget, they learn to save, and they learn basic home maintenance. Finally, they provide ‘sweat’ equity into their home, help build or re-build the property. ‘Graduates’ get a no-interest loan and keys to their new home. Kevin discussed how HHNCC transforms neighborhoods, block by block. Repairing or replacing housing, making critical repairs and facade improvements to help increase home ownership and reducing local crime by up to 39%. Results for the HHNCC participants reported 82% were no longer needing assistance, many reported improved health. For children the results were even more striking, 66% did better in school and 54% reported their children had gone on to college. Kevin asked for volunteers, individuals and groups, noting they build year-round. Funding comes from donations and from purchases – and donations to – their two thrift stores, Restore, which sells new and gently-used furniture and appliances, even new building materials at a fraction of their retail cost. Donations of furniture or materials support the stores; they also have a funding program to sponsor a roof with a $5,000.
For store locations, to volunteer or to just learn more visit HABITATNCC.ORG