Page 68 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2018

habitat
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY MEANS
Better Living Conditions
for Many Families
story by Susan Ruddiman photos courtesy of Habitat for Humanity
Because of the efforts of Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast (HFHMGC), hundreds of people are in
better living conditions whether it’s a new home or an existing one that has been repaired.
The international Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1976 as an ecumenical Christian housing ministry dedicated to helping families. The local Habitat groups came to the forefront after the destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. HFHMGC was formed when Harrison and Jackson counties chapters combined efforts — and later Stone County joined them — to ultimately become
one of the more successful and progressive Habitat entities in the nation, serving more than 1,000 families over the past 10 years.
One of the reasons HFHMGC
is successful is the flexibility
the nonprofit has in meeting the personalized needs of each client. Some come to Habitat seeking affordable housing options, while others need intensive financial coaching to learn to better manage their resources, and yet others may manage their resources fine, but simply need the opportunity for improvement.
With the right support and resources, Habitat believes people can make changes in their lives, and together those individual changes
can transform their communities. Summer Davis Shelby, an associate
with Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty, has witnessed how home ownership strengthens families. “I have been in real estate for 19 years and the importance of owning a home is essential for security and the development of our children. Home means safety, security and balance,” she said.
By creating strong partnerships with community stakeholders, Habitat has created innovative and sustainable solutions for families to transfer to their own lives.
Looking ahead, HFHMGC
wants to continue growing by expanding learning opportunities and applying innovative building techniques. They are working with a neighboring Habitat organization to increase capacity and provide additional opportunities for families. The new Habitat ReStore in Gulfport sells gently used building supplies and furniture to the community. Local businesses and community members have donated items to the store, and new customers are discovering great deals.
To serve more families,
Habitat for Humanity
of the Mississippi
Gulf Coast NEEDS MORE PARTNERS. Make a financial contribution, volunteer, recommend the Financial Foundations program to people or donate gently used items to the Habitat ReStore. Contact the office through email at volunteer@hfhmgc.org or call 228.678.9100.
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