Northwest Indiana Veterans Action Council and Habitat for Humanity Seek Applications for First Veterans Build Partner Family

2014-Veteran-Builders-After-HoursAlong with those currently serving, Lake County is home to approximately 37,000 veterans of the U.S. Military, according to the Northwest Indiana Veterans Action Council, which just announced a new partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana.

According to Michael Sparber, Chair of the Northwest Indiana Veterans Action Council, “One of our missions is to advocate for housing initiatives in Northwest Indiana,” Sparber said. “We need your help in identifying a partner family to build this house for. Individuals who can apply for this partnership need to be either in active service, be a veteran or a surviving spouse of someone who has fallen.”

Selection criteria include a need for adequate housing, the ability to pay and a willingness to partner. Along with applicable down payment and closing costs, Habitat homes are sold to owners with a zero percent interest rate. “Mortgage payments are estimated to be approximately $500, including real estate taxes and insurance. The Veteran family may choose from available lots in several Northwest Indiana communities.”

“The partner family once qualified will attend financial workshops and perform sweat equity hours on their home or another Habitat project. The house is built with volunteer labor so we will be asking many of you to share the talents you have by serving those who have served,” Sparber added. “Our target is to have this house built by the end of the year.”

He then pointed out how a $1 contribution from every person in Lake County through the new “Build for a Buck” campaign would allow the partners to build 6 homes for veterans in Northwest Indiana.

“If you are a Veteran interested in becoming a partner family, or if you work with Veterans who may be eligible, please join us on Tuesday, June 10th, from 5 to 7 p.m. for Veterans Build After Hours, an informational open house at the Habitat for Humanity office at 3777 Colfax Street, Gary. RSVP to 219-923-7265, ext. 311.”