Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana announced it partnership today with the NWI Veterans Action Council to build Indiana’s first veteran Habitat home. The meeting took place at Habitat for Humanity’s administrative office located at 3777 Colfax in Gary, Ind. There were over 50 veterans in attendance.
“Lake County is home to over 37,000 veterans,” The chairman of the NWI Veterans Action Council, Michael Sparber says. “We are sure there are families out there who qualify for Habitat’s program.”
Families who are selected for a home must meet the selection, eligibility and need criteria of Habitat for Humanity. An ideal family’s income will fall between 30% and 80% of the median income for Lake County. Families are also required to perform 300 sweat-equity hours, attend financial management classes and pay a down payment. Mortgage payments run between $550 - $750 monthly. Payments of these amounts are manageable due to donated materials, money and labor.
“We rely on the generosity of others to help fulfill the dreams of our partner families,” Daniel Klein, the executive director at Habitat says “Without our donors, this would not be possible,” Klein added.
A breakfast fundraiser will be held at Saint Elijah Serbian Hall in Merrillville on April 11, 2014 from 8:00 am – 9:30 am. There will be veteran speakers at the event. Tickets cost $20 per person. All proceeds from this event go toward the Veteran Build that will take place in the fall.
If you would like more information on how to apply to become a veteran homeowner or for ticket information visit Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana’s website at www.nwihabitat.org.