The soil was turned yesterday on the latest Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties affordable home build project. In a few short months, a new Partner Family will purchase this new, affordable home in Ingleside with Habitat for Humanity acting as both the builder and the bank.
This marks the 21st local, affordable home built by the organization and the second in South Stormont. Of note, this is also the third home under construction in 2024. Habitat Cornwall had hoped to build a second semi-detached. However, with only one Partner Family identified and challenging, external logistics, the decision was made to build a single-family home in Ingleside.
As Judith Wilcox of the Robert Campeau Family Foundation remarked, “Two affordable homes are better than one, but one is better than none!”
Well wishes and congratulations were shared with the families from a variety of attendees including government representatives and community supporters.
The Jimenez Family, Fiona and Jesus, along with their children, Lidija, Joaquim, Ameelija and Emmanuel will purchase this home at fair market value with an interest-free, geared to income mortgage. They will also demonstrate their partnership and commitment to Habitat for Humanity by dedicating 500 hours of volunteer service which will include a Home Owners Education component and fundraising for the build.
As rental and housing prices continue to rise across the country, working with key community stakeholders to offer the opportunity for affordable home ownership is more important than ever.
Habitat Cornwall Board Chair, Hank Blasiak shared, “We appreciate the support of the community, St. Lawrence College, the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario, Architect 49 and our Build Committees. This project benefits a local family and strengthens or community. We need your support. Please know, that funds raised here stay here to offset build costs and promote affordability.
For any businesses, community groups or individuals wanting to learn more about affordable housing opportunities with Habitat for Humanity and how they can help, they are encouraged to reach out to Joanne Mohamed at 613-938-0413 ext 204, or by email at joanne@habitatcornwall.org. Readers can also visit the ReStore at 1400 Vincent Massey Drive, Cornwall or Habitat Cornwall’s website at www.habitatcornwall.org.
