Habitat for Humanity welcomed two families into their new Habitat homes today at a celebration in the community of Redstone. In addition to being affordable, the homes are also accessible to meet the needs of children in each of the families. Habitat was joined by many of the sponsors, suppliers, government supporters and volunteers who all had a role in the completion of these homes.
“To find housing that is both affordable and accessible presents a real challenge for many families in Calgary,” said Michelle Rhode, Director of Family Services and Volunteer Services for Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta. “Families are often faced with difficult situations that we don’t ever want to see and we’re happy to be part of the solution. These homes have everything that each family member will need to feel safe and comfortable in their own home and we want to thank everyone who has been part of making it possible.”
The Government of Alberta contributed significantly to the construction of these homes, and Karen McPherson, MLA Calgary Mackay-Nose Hill was in attendance to bring greetings and offer support on behalf of the Province, Premier Rachel Notley and Minister of Seniors and Housing Lori Sigurdson.
“Stable housing contributes significantly to a family’s overall well-being and this project shows what can be achieved when people put their time, effort and most important their hearts together,” McPherson said. “On behalf of the Province, I’m honoured to welcome you into your new homes.”
Jeffrey, Suzanne and their five children Autumn, Zoe, Carmella, Finley and Jacob are one of the two families who will be purchasing and moving into their new Habitat homes on November 15. The accessible features, including ramps and a barrier-free main floor, will allow every member of the family to be comfortable, safe and secure in their new home.
“Whenever we talk to Autumn about her own room, her own special bathroom and that now she can wheel herself all over the main floor – although she cannot verbally respond back – we can see the twinkle in her eyes,” Jeffrey said. “Thank you to everyone who has had a hand in building our future.”
Habitat homes are the result of collaborative community support. Along with the Government of Alberta, Qualico Communities and ATB Financial have been generous supporters of these homes, in addition to many local trades and suppliers that step forward to donate building materials and labour. Six thousand volunteer hours were also logged to aid in the construction of these homes.
“It’s been a privilege to work with Habitat for Humanity for many years to bring families home,” said Cheryl Heilman, Marketing Manager of Qualico Communities. “This is one example of how we want to work with home builders to make affordable and accessible housing options available to more families.”
Affordable home ownership builds long-term stability and self-reliance, empowering families to invest in their futures and creating lasting benefits for their children. Each family has worked to build their homes, and will purchase them with affordable mortgage of no down-payment, no interest, with monthly payments set to their income level. This will give them the financial stability to make other important investments in their families’ futures.
These six homes are part of several developments Habitat is currently working on. Other projects include 24 homes in Pineridge, six homes in Ravenswood, five homes in Bowness and several upcoming developments in Calgary and across southern Alberta.