Habitat for Humanity is currently planning its next build for a family to own their own home in Portage la Prairie. This will be their 14th project to date.
Habitat for Humanity Family Selection Committee co-coordinator Heather Schmidt says construction won’t begin until 2025, as they need time to search for a family first—their top priority.
Long-time member and Steering Committee secretary Betty-Jean Checkley outlines the location.
"We've had the lot for some time. It's a nicely developed lot with trees. Some of them may have to be altered somewhat to make the home fit on the lot. It is in the East End of town and is a well-developed neighbourhood. It's beautiful, and there's been so much grass cutting there this summer because of the way it's grown. It'll be a single-family dwelling this time."
Schmidt adds they are starting on Thursday, September 26th, with a public information meeting at the Family Resource Centre at 7 p.m.
"Basically, we want a family that has an income of at least $35,000 a year. Our priority is families. It's based on three principles: they need the ability to pay and the willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity. Rent is so high these days, it's really hard for your average family to put aside money for a down payment and get a mortgage from the bank."
She notes families must also be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, must have been employed for two years, and cannot have owned a previous home in or outside of Canada.
Habitat for Humanity provides a down payment-free and interest-free mortgage for 15 years. The family must be able to pay the mortgage, which is based on 27 per cent of the family’s income.
Checkley notes the build uses the plans they’ve relied on in the past—the standard Habitat Manitoba build.
"If you've been to any of the Homes for the Holidays or any of the key ceremonies, you would recognize it. It comes in at about 950 square feet, but it feels like so much more. All the space is utilized. It's an open-area concept. There's a large family area, more bedrooms downstairs, two bathrooms, and a nice little front porch on the last ones we built, which are really lovely because you can look out and enjoy the sunsets—they both face west."
Schmidt explains that the build is based on the family’s needs. For a family with four children, the organization ensures there are at least three bedrooms.
Checkley adds that a certain age of a child requires them to have their own room.
"They want them to have their own rooms, not so much sharing and doubling up, as in the way I grew up. They are very mindful of how many children there are, what the needs are for those children, and they are very respectful of that."
Checkley notes they have accommodated 25 children so far in their efforts.
"The majority of them are boys, which I find kind of interesting, but they range from six months old to over 26 years. Another fun fact: one of our families had a daughter who has graduated and is starting post-secondary in Winnipeg this month. That is a joy. It's just a joyful situation."
Schmidt adds they have also provided houses for families with two sets of twin boys over the years.