Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County

Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County helps families attain the goal of homeownership—giving them a stable place to live. It’s about more than the physical security of a home, it’s about the memories that are made there.

According to a survey of Habitat homeowners conducted by Habitat for Humanity of Georgia, 9 out of 10 respondents have maintained or increased the amount of time their families spend together, and more than two-thirds of them described the quality of the time spent with their families to be better than before moving into their Habitat homes.

Before moving into her Habitat home in Rincon, Brittney Roper and her two children were living with her mother. Because she met many of the qualifications for Habitat homeownership, she decided to apply and was accepted in 2017.

“I was overwhelmed with joy. I didn’t think that I would qualify, and when I did, it was just too good to be true,” Brittney said.

Brittney collaborated with a team of contractors and volunteers for eight months to help with the construction of her home. This was part of the 250 hours of “sweat equity” that is required of every Habitat homeowner, which can also be completed by volunteering at the ReStore.

Prospective Habitat homeowners also have to meet other requirements, like an annual income that is 60 to 80 percent of the area’s median income, employment in the same job for at least one year and a credit score that is greater than 640. They must also be able to pay a 2 percent down payment and an affordable monthly mortgage payment.

“I’m thankful for Habitat being able to provide for our community for younger generations that are striving to have a home. It’s harder in today’s economy to actually be a homeowner, but with Habitat anything’s possible,” Brittney said.

In September 2018, Brittney’s home was completed and she, her son Julian and her daughter Ella were able to move in and start making memories.

This year, Brittney hosted her family’s Thanksgiving meal for the second time and enjoyed having her relatives join her. Brittney has also hosted birthday parties, game nights and other family gatherings at her home, including Christmas.

“My home is a more central location for family bonding,” Brittney said. “[My children are] looking forward to spending many more Christmases here.”

It’s clear that for the holidays you can’t beat home sweet home. By donating to Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County, you can help local families create unforgettable memories with their friends and relatives.

Another home is currently under construction in Guyton and volunteers are needed to help on the build site to stay on track for a target completion date of spring 2023. Construction takes place every Saturday from 8am-3pm, weather permitting. Sign up at habitatec.org/volunteer.