Altrusa Donates $500 To Habitat For Humanity
Habitat for Humanity’s Executive Director for Kosciusko County Mickey Kauffman presented an informative program for members of Altrusa International of Warsaw at their meeting on March 5, held at the Warsaw Library.
Altrusa has been donating the front doors for county Habitat homes for several years, and Service Chair Jeanine Knowles presented Kauffman with a check for $500. The money will be used for front doors for two homes being finalized in our area, one in Warsaw and another in North Webster.
Habitat statistics show that a third of the world’s population is homeless. In the U.S., states average 10-15 percent homeless populations. These statistics do not include those families living in inadequate housing; the need is great.
Kauffman explained that Habitat does not give away homes to poor people. It’s not welfare or a handout. They offer ownership opportunities to families who are unable to obtain conventional house financing. In addition to a down payment, homeowners contribute 250 hours of “sweat equity” on the construction of their homes.
Habitat houses are built using donations of land, material and labor enabling mortgage payment to be kept affordable. Recipients must show need and ability to pay, and they work with the organization for two years to learn to care for their homes and become a part of their neighborhood. Individuals wanting more information about Habitat for Humanity may phone (574) 269-4104.