Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program stands as a beacon of hope
New Open Doors initiative looks to add more homeowners to the Midstate
By Marquis Lupton
Aired; March 14th, 2024.
Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program stands as a beacon of hope for first-time homebuyers in Lancaster and Lebanon Counties, offering a pathway to affordable and decent housing. The program fosters strength, stability, and self-sufficiency among future homeowners and their families as they engage in the process. They are supported through the program until they are ready to purchase their Habitat home, facilitated by a zero-percent interest mortgage tailored to their budget.
Since its inception in 1986, Habitat has been dedicated to bringing the community together to build safe, warm, and affordable homes for local families in need. Through the collaborative efforts of volunteers and community partners, Habitat has been able to expand homeownership opportunities in the region, assisting more than 300 households with their housing needs. The organization’s latest endeavor, the “Open Doors” campaign, aims to raise $4 million to construct 30 affordable homes over five years, marking a significant 50 percent increase in home construction compared to recent years.
The urgency of addressing affordable housing is paramount as inventory diminishes and home costs soar, particularly impacting lower-income families striving for homeownership. Each day, Habitat receives numerous inquiries from local families in dire need of affordable housing. Contributions to the “Open Doors” campaign will support Habitat in acquiring properties for new construction or renovation, purchasing building supplies, expanding the construction team, and enhancing the volunteer program.
Beyond addressing the immediate housing crisis, the campaign also aims to bolster Habitat’s organizational capacity, enabling sustained accelerated construction beyond the campaign’s conclusion in 2026. By strengthening its infrastructure, Habitat seeks to continue its mission of providing affordable housing well into the future. The impact of affordable homeownership extends beyond mere shelter; it empowers families with the space to pursue life’s opportunities and navigate its challenges, ultimately enabling them to build brighter futures for themselves.
The “Open Doors” campaign represents a pivotal moment in Habitat’s history, signaling a commitment to addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in Lancaster and Lebanon Counties. Through collective efforts and community support, Habitat endeavors to make homeownership a reality for more families, fostering stability and prosperity for generations to come.
