Phillip Stepp
Board Meeting: Mar 2024
Board Meeting: Feb 2024
Board Meeting: Jan 2024
Habitat Catawba Valley Welcomes a Family Home in Time for the Holidays
Habitat Catawba Valley Celebrates the Conclusion of Robin’s Homeownership Journey
Hickory, NC (December 12, 2023)-
On Tuesday, December 12th, 2023, Robin Jakubowski closed on her own Habitat home. Robin enrolled in the Habitat Catawba Valley homeownership program in 2019. One of the most exciting moments in a Habitat homebuyer’s journey is the opportunity for a family to select the lot for their future home – and right from the start, Robin had her heart set on one of two cottages slated for Habitat’s F Avenue builds. Shortly into her journey as a homebuyer, COVID 19 struck the world. Pandemic-related cost increases, materials shortages, and staffing constraints meant that Habitat could only build in one neighborhood at a time. So during the rocky years of Covid, Habitat committed our work to building solid foundations in the Cottages at Ridgeview neighborhood.
One important aspect of Habitat’s program is the opportunity for future homebuyers to have a choice over the location of their permanent address. While Robin was offered the chance to buy a home in the Cottages at Ridgeview, she hung on to her dream of living on F Avenue. Over the next 4 years Robin remained a committed partner to Habitat, attending classes, participating in events, and welcoming three cohorts of newly accepted Habitat families. She helped families break ground, and celebrated with them when they received their keys – all the while remaining patient and positive.
Yet, it was hard for Robin to watch walls go up in the Cottages at Ridgeview, knowing it would still be years before Habitat began work in F Avenue. It was hard for Habitat staff as well. “I just remember sitting in so many meetings with construction and leadership during those years, digging into the idea that there’s got to be another way to get Robin into a house sooner”, recalls Andrew Isola, Homeowner Services Coordinator.
That “other way” emerged as Habitat’s new three-tier construction model. Created to increase our capacity to serve, accelerate construction timelines, and help more families move-in sooner, this approach utilizes varying amounts of supplemental contractor labor, allowing Habitat to work in multiple developments at once. And now, after inspiring this shift, Robin is the first homeowner to live in a house built using this model.
To Robin, ‘Home’ means having a safe place for her family. As a mother of two and a grandmother of 5, safe and affordable shelter could not be more vital to Robin. After working successfully full-time at a local manufacturer for 10 years, Robin was no closer to achieving her dream of homeownership. That’s when she discovered Habitat Catawba Valley.
“Having a Habitat home will change my life because [my family] and I can have a place to call our own. Owning my own home means I will always have a safe place for me and family.”
On Tuesday, 12/12/23, Robin’s dream of homeownership finally came to fruition. At the conclusion of her closing, Robin was greeted by members of the Habitat Catawba Valley staff. With hot cocoa and cupcakes in hand, the staff welcomed Robin to her new home in style. With Tina Morgan giving her a final blessing from the organization, Robin is now set to spend her first Christmas in a brand new, energy efficient and affordable, Habitat Home. Robin plans for her home to be a place to cherish her family. She cannot wait to celebrate the holidays with her entire family in her new home.
Hear what Habitat staff members have to say about Robin’s unique journey
Mitzi Gellman, Exec. Director:
“I have been impressed by her resolute commitment to waiting for a house on F Ave., despite the long, long period of time it took for her home. Her patience throughout the process was extraordinary and I am so happy to share in her joy with her new home.”
Jenna Ross, Asst. Director:
“Robin has demonstrated leadership, patience, and grace throughout her journey. She has been a great community builder in her time with Habitat, and has helped three different cohorts of accepted Habitat families find their way in this program. Cannot wait to watch her build community in her new neighborhood. Very excited for her new adventure!”
Stacy G., Homeowner Services Coordniator:
“Throughout the time I have worked with Robin, she has been so kindhearted, patient, understanding, and determined to move forward, overcoming any and all obstacles that got in her way. She is an all around amazing woman, neighbor, mother, and partner to Habitat.”
Tina Morgan, Homeowner Services Director:
“I like Robin’s words in her first info for us after acceptance – When asked what’s most important to her about being able to buy a Habitat house, Robin had two answers: “I’ll have a house that I can afford to pay for and not worry about how to pay other bills.” and “I’ll have a safe place for my family.””
For more information on the Cottages at Ridgeview and ways to get involved, contact Habitat Catawba Valley at 828-328-4663 x 106 or visit www.habitatcatawbavalley.org
About Habitat Catawba Valley
Founded in 1985, Habitat for Humanity of Catawba Valley is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian housing organization dedicated to building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.
People in our community partner with Habitat Catawba Valley to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering, or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve security they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit www.habitatcatawbavalley.org or call 828-328-4663 x 106.
Board Meeting: Dec 2023
Board Meeting: Oct 2023
Habitat Catawba Valley Welcomes a New Homeowner in Ridgeview
Habitat Catawba Valley Welcomes a New Homeowner in Ridgeview
Hickory, NC (October 21, 2023)-
On a Saturday afternoon, Habitat hosted a homecoming ceremony in the heart of the Cottages at Ridgeview neighborhood, for their newest homeowner, Epemenio Mendoza, or Epi to his friends. Joined by his son Manny, Epi received his keys to a brand new life in his home. With the newfound sense of safety and security that comes with homeownership, Epi is looking forward to flexing his culinary muscles, hosting friends and family, and providing a place his boys can always come back home to.
To Epi, ‘Home’ means having a safe place to have all of his kids together with him under one roof. Homeownership has always been a big presence in Epi’s life. The other big presence is family. His parents still own their own home in Los Angeles. And it was his sister-in-law who first introduced Epi to Habitat. He wanted to pass that same stability of home and family on to his sons. Out of all his accomplishments, Epi is most proud of raising his children on his own.
Originally from Los Angeles, CA, Epi moved to the Hickory area in search of more affordable living, less congestion, and great opportunities for his family. He already had a connection to Newton where family members lived, and no longer needs to live with his sister-in-law as his brand new home is fully complete.
“Owning my own home will show my kids that hard work pays off. It will give my kids the change to focus on education and not where they will live or who they will have to live with.”
Epi’s home, the newest addition to Habitat Catawba Valley’s “Cottages at Ridgeview” neighborhood, boasts 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, and 1300+ feet of single level living area. His home is unique in that it features a solar panel installation, generously donated and installed through a partnership with Advanced Energy and Southern Energy Management Inc. Having the ability to generate a portion of the power consumed in the household is an amazing benefit, and will help to keep his heating and cooling bills down during peak usage months. While Habitat Catawba Valley primary focus is to make homeownership accessible through an affordable mortgage, the organization also believes energy efficiency is an important factor in home affordability.
Last year, new Habitat homebuyers were guaranteed $32 per month average heating and cooling costs for the first two years of their residency. Why? Because affordability isn’t just about what a homeowner can buy – it’s also about what they can maintain. By pursuing efficiency, Habitat Catawba Valley builds energy savings into the life of the home, and builds environmental stewardship into the life of our community.
Other Habitat projects in the community include a new 3 tiered construction model, aimed at serving more families faster. “Last year, we received 367 homeownership inquiries. That’s more than a family a day seeking more secure shelter,” explains Habitat Catawba Valley Executive Director Mitzi Gellman. “We know the need for affordable housing outpaces any individual organization’s ability to provide it on their own. The traditional Habitat construction model of a small staff and willing but unskilled volunteers was not designed for today’s housing demand.”
That’s why Habitat Catawba Valley has joined with key partners to diversify its construction model, increase its capacity, and participate in larger, more coordinated projects. This tiered construction model includes traditional Habitat construction where Habitat is the sole builder, hybrid construction where a contractor frames the house and Habitat finishes it, and turnkey construction where a contractor builds the house from start to finish.
Today, Habitat Catawba Valley currently has homes underway in all three tiers of this construction model – including Ridgefield Place in Ridgeview. This project is a public, private, non-profit partnership between Habitat Catawba Valley, The City of Hickory, and JRN Development slated for 21 new construction affordable homes.
What will the future hold for Habitat’s newest homeowners?
For Epi and family, ‘Home’ means having a safe place to have all of his kids together with him under one roof. “Owning my own home will show my kids that hard work pays off. It will give my kids the change to focus on education and not where they will live or who they will have to live with.”
For more information on the Cottages at Ridgeview and ways to get involved, contact Habitat Catawba Valley at 828-328-4663 x 106 or visit www.habitatcatawbavalley.org
About Habitat Catawba Valley
Founded in 1985, Habitat for Humanity of Catawba Valley is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian housing organization dedicated to building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.
People in our community partner with Habitat Catawba Valley to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering, or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve security they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit www.habitatcatawbavalley.org or call 828-328-4663 x 106.
ReStore Cyber Monday Survey
Hello ReStore Online Shopper
thank you for your recent online purchase
ReStore Catawba Valley is committed to making sure you have the best shopping experience! In an effort to obtain feedback about our recent online shopping initiatives, please take a few moments to complete this quick survey. Thank you for your feedback, and for supporting Habitat for Humanity Catawba Valley!
Habitat Catawba Valley lifts a hand – and a hammer – on 2023 Carter Work Project
Charlotte, NC (October 2, 2023)-
October 1-6 saw an influx of goodwill and hundreds of volunteers pouring into Charlotte as Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region hosted the 2023 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project. Joining the hammer-wielding Habitat volunteers was Jenna Ross, Assistant Director of Habitat for Humanity of Catawba County.
Some 800-plus volunteers a day from across the southeast and across the country will helped build 27 new affordable Habitat homes at two separate west Charlotte job sites.
According to Habitat Catawba Valley Executive Director, Mitzi Gellman, “It is wonderful to have the Habitat for Humanity Carter Work Project in Charlotte and in the backyard of Catawba County. The lack of affordable and safe housing is more than an urban problem, extending into rural communities which have problems that include more than just adequate housing. In the Hickory MSA, low-income residents often live in homes over 50 years old, needing major repairs and lacking access to clean water and safe sewer systems.”
The Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project has been Habitat for Humanity International’s signature annual event since 1983. This year marks the second time for the Carter Project in the Queen City; in 1987 the Carter Project in Charlotte resulted in 14 new homes built in the Optimist Park community.
As President and Mrs. Carter are no longer able to travel and participate, country music superstars Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood served as celebrity hosts leading volunteer building crews throughout the week. This was Brooks’ and Yearwood’s 13th Habitat build.
“Though we could never fill their shoes, we are so incredibly honored to be given the opportunity to carry President and Mrs. Carter’s legacy forward through the continuation of the Carter Work Project,” Brooks said.
The much beloved former president and first lady are celebrated as Habitat’s most renowned volunteers. Together, from 1984 to 2019, they worked alongside more than 104,000 volunteers in 14 countries to build, renovate and repair 4,390 homes — always serving as champions and strong voices for decent, affordable housing around the world.
5 faces from the 2023 Carter Work Project!
Here are just a few of the faces that bring the time, talent and gifts needed to make the project possible.
The 2023 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project took place at Habitat Charlotte Region’s large-scale affordable housing neighborhood, The Meadows at Plato Price. Named after the Plato Price School, this historically significant West Charlotte area was once a thriving African-American neighborhood. Plato Price School closed in the 1960s when desegregation took hold, and the land lay vacant until the city of Charlotte donated it to Habitat Charlotte Region in 2019.
The Meadows at Plato Price community will sit on land formerly occupied by Plato Price School, an all-Black school for grades 1 through 12 that was closed in 1966 as part of the county’s desegregation plan.
Over five days, future homeowners worked alongside Brooks, Yearwood and hundreds of other volunteers from Charlotte and around the world to build 27 single-family affordable homes.
Habitat Charlotte Region broke ground on the project Sept. 8, 2021. With seven homes already under construction, the entire 39-home project is expected to be completed by early 2025.
sources:
Habitat for Humanity International announces Clinton Global Initiative Commitment
New York (Sept 18, 2023)-
Habitat for Humanity today announced a Clinton Global Initiative Commitment to Action to support 15 million people in slums and other informal settlements in gaining access to adequate housing by 2028 as part of a five-year campaign called Home Equals.
In a world filled with challenges, the commitment of organizations like Habitat for Humanity is a beacon of hope. As we celebrate the recent announcement of Habitat for Humanity’s commitment to the Clinton Global Initiative, it’s essential to shine a spotlight on the incredible work being done at the local level. Habitat Catawba Valley stands as a prime example of unwavering dedication to the same cause.
While the global initiative aims to support 15 million people in need of affordable housing, Habitat Catawba Valley has been making a significant impact right in their own backyard. They share the same vision – a world where everyone has a decent place to live.
With a dedicated team of volunteers, skilled professionals, and community partners, Habitat Catawba Valley has transformed countless lives throughout Catawba County. Through our efforts, we have provided safe, decent, and affordable housing for families in need, creating not just houses, but homes filled with love, hope, and opportunity.
Read the full article on Habitat for Humanity’s commitment to the Clinton Global Initiative
The work of our organization is a shining example of how local communities can make a global impact. By building homes, they are building futures, breaking the cycle of poverty, and creating stronger, more vibrant communities.
Board Meeting: Sept 2023
Board Meeting: Aug 2023
Share Your Voice – Fall 2023
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Habitat Catawba Valley is committed to keeping your e-mail address and any personally identifiable information you choose to provide us confidential. We do not sell, rent, or lease our contact data or lists to third parties, and we will not provide your personal information to any third party individual, government agency, or company at any time unless compelled to do so by law.
Board Meeting: July 2023
Two Habitat Homebuyers Close on First Homes
Two Habitat Homebuyers Close on First Homes; Open Door to More Secure Future
Hickory, NC (July 18th, 2023)-
On Tuesday afternoon, Habitat celebrated closings on its two most recently constructed homes, and two families received the keys to a more secure future. Melissa Cruse and Sharon Gadson represent the newest homeowners who have partnered with Habitat Catawba Valley to build and buy a home of their very own.
Melissa is a mother of 4, and grandmother of two who also serves as a program director for a local non-profit. Sharon is a mother of a Hickory High School student and has worked locally for a corporate uniform provider for the past 2 years. “I’m beyond excited about the new house. My red door and my two trees look amazing,” shared Cruse.
Closing on their homes and opening the door to their next chapter as homeowners is the culmination of a journey that both women began during the pandemic. In addition to building their own home, all Habitat Homebuyers attend budgeting and financial management classes, perform sweat equity hours, and pay an affordable mortgage. Unlike traditional mortgages, Habitat sets mortgage payments at 24% of a family’s income, and provides additional resources from partnering organizations to help keep the cost affordable – including Habitat Catawba Valley’s own in-house down payment assistance. Last year, the average down payment assistance provided by Habitat was $32,633.08 per family.
“I truly believe I would not have had the faith or trust to buy from a traditional lender in a traditional way. But I have never doubted my choice with Habitat. I don’t question the quality of the house. I’m not worried about hidden fine print,” said Cruse.
Cruse and Gadson will be the newest neighbors in Habitat’s Cottages at Ridgeview neighborhood. The Cottages at Ridgeview is a traditional Habitat-built mixed-income community with 4 completed homes, 5 homes under construction, and 6 more on the way. A combination of traditional Habitat homeownership and homes sold on the open market to increase the local workforce housing stock, this project acquired empty lots and vacant buildings and is constructing new, energy efficient craftsmen-styled cottages in their place.
Other Habitat projects in the community include a new 3 tiered construction model, aimed at serving more families faster. “Last year, we received 367 homeownership inquiries. That’s more than a family a day seeking more secure shelter,” explains Habitat Catawba Valley Executive Director Mitzi Gellman. “We know the need for affordable housing outpaces any individual organization’s ability to provide it on their own. The traditional Habitat construction model of a small staff and willing but unskilled volunteers was not designed for today’s housing demand.”
That’s why Habitat Catawba Valley has joined with key partners to diversify its construction model, increase its capacity, and participate in larger, more coordinated projects. This tiered construction model includes traditional Habitat construction where Habitat is the sole builder, hybrid construction where a contractor frames the house and Habitat finishes it, and turnkey construction where a contractor builds the house from start to finish.
Today, Habitat Catawba Valley currently has homes underway in all three tiers of this construction model – including Ridgefield Place in Ridgeview. This project is a public, private, non-profit partnership between Habitat Catawba Valley, The City of Hickory, and JRN Development slated for 21 new construction affordable homes.
What will the future hold for Habitat’s newest homeowners?
For Gadson and her son, it means more quality time. “We enjoy watching movies and cooking together. I graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts. I have a strong passion for cooking and trying out different recipes.”
For the Cruse family, it means laying down roots. “Lots of kids will grow up in this home as I imagine it will be the central, permanent location for everyone in the family. This yard will hold little feet for years to come. These walls and roof will keep little heads safe and sound.”
For more information on the Cottages at Ridgeview and ways to get involved, contact Habitat Catawba Valley at 828-328-4663 x 106 or visit www.habitatcatawbavalley.org
About Habitat Catawba Valley
Founded in 1985, Habitat for Humanity of Catawba Valley is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian housing organization dedicated to building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.
People in our community partner with Habitat Catawba Valley to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering, or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve security they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit www.habitatcatawbavalley.org or call 828-328-4663 x 106.
Celebrating the Success of the Foothills Community Housing Fair
Celebrating the Success of the Foothills Community Housing Fair: A Testament to Unity and Progress
Introduction:
We at Habitat Catawba Valley extend our deepest gratitude to all the sponsors, community members, and partners who came together for the recent Foothills Community Housing Fair on June 3rd at the Ridgeview Recreation Center. As part of Catawba County’s month-long Juneteenth Celebration, this event, organized in collaboration with the Hickory NAACP and multiple community partners, exemplified the unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable housing solutions within our community. With the mission of providing affordable homes and empowering families, we witnessed firsthand the positive impact this event had on our shared vision of a brighter future for all.
A Unified Effort:
The Foothills Community Housing Fair was an opportunity for our community members to come together and engage in meaningful conversations about housing challenges, solutions, and resources. We are immensely grateful to the Hickory NAACP for their pivotal role in spearheading this event and working side by side with us and the other members of the Equity and Inclusion Task Force’s Housing Committee to promote our mission of access and opportunity through housing.
Highlighting the Impact:
The fair not only provided a platform for individuals to learn about affordable housing options but also opened doors to various resources, guidance, and networking opportunities. The event was a great opportunity for collaboration between organizations, sponsors, and community members seeking to address critical housing needs in our community.
Recognizing Our Sponsors and Partners:
We would like to extend our thanks to our lead sponsor Peoples Bank, as well as all of the additional sponsors and exhibitors who helped to make this possible. Your commitment to ensuring all families have the keys to build solid homes and secure futures in the Catawba Valley is truly commendable.
A Special Thanks to the Hickory NAACP:
Our gratitude extends to the Hickory NAACP for their visionary leadership and partnership. Their deep understanding of the challenges faced by the community and their commitment to social justice have been an instrumental motivator behind this event. By collaborating with Habitat Catawba Valley and all our sister members of the Housing Committee, the Hickory NAACP showed how organizations can unite to directly create change in our community.
Looking Ahead:
The Foothills Community Housing Fair serves as a testament to the power of collective action, and the potential impact it can have on our community. As we reflect on this event, we are reminded of the work that still lies ahead. Habitat Catawba Valley remains committed to our mission of building affordable homes, advocating for equitable housing policies, and empowering families in need. Together with our partners and supporters, we will continue to work tirelessly towards a future where safe and decent housing is a reality for all.
Conclusion:
Again, we want to express our deepest appreciation to all the sponsors, partners, and community members who came together to make this event a success. Through collaboration and a shared commitment to our mission, we were able to take a step forward in strengthening the community’s knowledge about housing, homeownership, and the resources available. Let us carry the spirit of unity and progress forward as we strive to create a better future for all residents of Catawba Valley.
See our image gallery below from the event:
Summer 2023 Buildsites
where we’re building
– Summer 2023 –
Twist Modern Collection
Twist Modern Collection
Check out all of the amazing pieces from this generous donation!
Board Meeting: May 2023
Board Meeting: April 2023
Calling all Exhibitors: The 2023 Foothills NAACP Community Housing Fair
Calling all Exhibitors: 2023 Foothills NAACP Community Housing Fair
The Foothills Community Housing Fair is a one-stop shop to learn everything you need to know about buying, renting, improving, or maintaining an affordable place to call home. The Hickory NAACP Equity and Inclusion Task Force invites you to join us as an exhibitor at the Foothills Community Housing Fair. This event showcases leaders across the affordable housing industry who are providing the education, resources, and services our neighbors need to build a solid foundation.
You are invited to showcase your business or organization to residents seeking affordable housing solutions. Whether you are a housing agency, a non-profit service provider, or an industry professional – you have the keys residents can use to unlock more affordable, attainable, and sustainable futures. Your presence gives visitors a one-stop shot to learn everything they need to know about buying, renting, improving, or maintaining a decent place to call home.
EXHIBITORS, REGISTER NOW:
Exhibitors fall into 2 main categories: “Non-profit or Government” Service Providers or Industry Professionals. Both provide the essential tools that attendees from our 5 county region can use to build more secure futures. Select your best-fit category below, and follow the links to complete registration.
Service Provider Registration
Non-Profits, Housing Counselors, and Government Agencies
Industry Professional Registration
Realtors, Lenders, Rentals, and Business Experts
Board Meeting: February 2023
Board Meeting: January 2023
Famous Maker Collection
Famous Maker Collection
Check out all of the amazing pieces we have from a local, mystery, “Famous Maker”!
Habitat Repairs! program helps Newton couple while honoring retired manager Richard Greathouse
Habitat Catawba Valley honors the career of Richard Greathouse and helps a Newton, NC family in need.
For the Coulter Family “Home” was a place where they raised their children, who are now grown and living on their own. Their family is close, and find joy and meaning in their service to their community. Their home, that once brought them so much joy, needed repairs. Built in 1969, the Coulter’s purchased their home when they were younger.
We didn’t think about getting to the stage in life that we wouldn’t be able to go up and down stairs. We were young and didn’t think about long term needs we would have in our home. (Shirley Coulter, Homeowner in need)
She and her husband James hope they will be able to live in their home for years to come. Only now, health issues and the cost of medical care means some repairs on the home, that they are so proud to own, are placed on hold.
Mrs. Coulter contacted Habitat for Humanity of Catawba Valley’s home repair program, after she “heard so many things about Habitat and how they work to serve others, to make life better and help keep you in your home for as long as possible.” Launched in 2015, the Habitat Repairs! program fixes older, owner-occupied homes with the goal of improving health, safety, and security for low-income families, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
The type of repairs we do are typically things that will keep the homeowner safe, warm and dry. We primarily do roof repairs, improve handicap access at the home, and some plumbing and electrical jobs. (Richard Greathouse, retired Habitat Repairs supervisor)
To honor Greathouse for his more than 30 years of service to Habitat Catawba Valley, the Coulter home repairs are funded by gifts to the Habitat Repairs! fund from family and friends. In all more than $6,000 was raised, enough to cover part of the repair costs. Foundation grants and other donations will make up the difference in cost.
For the Coulters’, Habitat’s help means they will finally have a safe and handicap accessible bathroom and shower to accommodate the wheelchair Mrs. Coulter uses to get around her home. Additionally, Habitat volunteers and staff will remove an old carport that is unsafe and oversee some electrical repairs. The payment to cover the repair work is based upon what the family can reasonability afford to pay. The amount of work on the Coulter’s home is typical for the Habitat Repairs! staff.
On average Habitat Catawba will complete 1 of 4 repairs per home that we serve. Things like leaking roofs, broken heating systems, plumbing and electrical issues. Problems that by the time families seek help, they have experienced years of delayed repairs due to the high cost of fixing their homes. The positive impact for homeowners extends past the tangible work: a new roof eliminates mold and standing water in homes; new or updated HVAC units provide heat and air conditioning where there was none; accessibility ramps improve independence; and electrical and plumbing repairs eliminate dangerous and unsafe conditions. (Mitzi Gellman, Habitat Executive Director)
The Hickory metropolitan statistical area has the oldest housing stock in North Carolina. The need continues to grow. But, so will the Repairs! program. In 2021, Habitat Repairs! with Richard help completed 120 home repairs and served 47 individuals all with the goal of keeping our elderly and frail Safe, Warm and Dry. We are so thankful for all of the work that you have done to help turn the Habitat Repairs! program into what it is today. THANK YOU RICHARD!
The work at the Coulter home is ongoing and will be completed in early 2023. The family is excitedly waiting for the repairs to be completed.
To learn more about the Habitat Repairs! program, visit:
habitatcatawbavalley.org/services/habitat-repairs/
To make a financial impact and help Habitat Catawba Valley serve more people in the community, click “Donate Now” in the menu bar or visit:
app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/CatawbaValleyHabitatforHumani/donate.html
About Catawba Valley Habitat for Humanity
Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity of Catawba Valley is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian housing organization dedicated to building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. Since 1985, Habitat Catawba Valley has parterned with families to build or improve a place they can call home. Through financial support, volunteering, or advocating in support of affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve security they need to build solid foundations. To learn more, visit www.habitatcatawbavalley.org or call 828-328-4663×315.
Board Meeting: November 2022
New Homeowner Welcomed in Ridgeview
New Homeowner Welcomed in Ridgeview
Hickory, NC (Nov 29, 2022)-
On Tuesday morning, Habitat Catawba Valley welcomed their newest member to the Cottages at Ridgeview community. Niya Mayfield, born and raised in Hickory, NC, began her Habitat journey during the pandemic. Today, she receives her keys, and moves into her new home – right next door to the lot where she grew up. Niya is thrilled to take the final step in her journey back home, and the first step into creating new memories and future possibilities.
“Owning a home will mean a lot to my family considering that I’m getting older. It’s important for me to start thinking about what I’m going to leave for my family.” said Niya at the beginning of her Habitat Journey
Niya’s home in Ridgeview is actually right next to where she grew up. A far cry from what once stood on this corner, Niya’s new home is energy efficient and affordable, thanks to Habitat’s innovative approach to homebuilding. All of our homes at the Cottages in Ridgeview are Energy Star certified, allowing the homeowners to have predictable, manageable utility payments.
What will the future hold for Habitat’s newest homeowner?
Niya and her sons plan to enjoy spending time together, and with their extended family (some of which are already existing Habitat homeowners!). They look forward to the opportunity to go out to eat, and see movies together in their new home. Niya loves to cook for her extended family, and is excited to use her new open floorplan and kitchen to entertain.
For more information on the Cottages at Ridgeview and ways to get involved, contact Habitat Catawba Valley at 828-328-4663 x 106 or visit www.habitatcatawbavalley.org
About Habitat Catawba Valley
Founded in 1985, Habitat for Humanity of Catawba Valley is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian housing organization dedicated to building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.
People in our community partner with Habitat Catawba Valley to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering, or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve security they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit www.habitatcatawbavalley.org or call 828-328-4663 x 106.