For Habitat for Humanity of Putnam County, their vision is simple, “A world where everyone has a decent place to live”. With the mission of “Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope”, the organization strives to provide strength and stability to those in need through affordable housing.
In Putnam County, the median household income is approximately $38,351, with 16.2% of people living below the poverty line. The need for affordable housing is significant, and Habitat for Humanity of Putnam remains committed to provide for their community. For this organization, housing is more than just shelter – it is vital for the strength of their community, the social well-being of individuals, and the stability for families.
Habitat for Humanity of Putnam not only assists in providing affordable housing opportunities, but they also provide education for the families they assist. Applicants must meet three qualifications: “the need for affordable housing, willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity of Putnam, and ability to repay a no interest mortgage.” The education portion is a commitment to ten hours of homeownership educational classes and 250 “sweat equity” hours. Educational classes are taught by professionals in financial planning, insurance, and the responsibility of homeownership.
Habitat for Humanity of Putnam has three main programs to serve their community members. Through its Affordable Homes program, the organization partners with families by providing homes with affordable mortgages with the goal of the family becoming long-term homeowners. In 2000, Putnam opened their home improvement store, ReStore. ReStore sells gently used homegoods, furniture, and building materials at affordable prices. Habitat for Humanity of Putnam also runs a Land Acquisition program, where they are always on the lookout for new land to purchase to provide new housing opportunities.
The impact Habitat for Humanity of Putnam County can be seen in the lives it changes. For Gloria and Alfredo, the couple moved from California to Georgia seeking better work opportunities. Parents of two sons – one a retired Marine and the other working in law enforcement – their previous housing was cramped with mold issues. Because of Habitat for Humanity of Putnam, the couple now has affordable, safe housing to come home to after a long days work. This is the story for so many hardworking families of Putnam County: a fulfilled promise of affordable, safe, stable housing that the families have worked hard to obtain and maintain.
Jody Page, the General Manager of Harbin Lumber Company’s Eatonton location, has been involved with Habitat for Humanity for over twenty years. When asked about his involvement in Habitat for Humanity of Putnam, Jody had this to say:
“It’s very heartwarming to see families get a new start in life! I really like being involved in helping Habitat. I’m very grateful that Harbin has been so blessed to help! I love the network of people I get to work with. We’re all very blessed.”
The Harbin Family Foundation is proud to support the meaningful work being done at Habitat for Humanity of Putnam County and the lasting impact it continues to make within the community.