Habitat Edmonton celebrated our wonderful volunteers!

Volunteers are vital to the success of Habitat for Humanity. With their support, we continue to empower through affordable homeownership, providing a hand-up to Albertans so they can take control of their future. In 2023, 900 volunteers donated their time, collectively logging over 35,000 volunteer hours. As a result, 43 families became homeowners, who are now building strength, stability, and self-reliance. On April 18, we celebrated our volunteers’ dedication and unwavering support. Our theme was western, so everyone dressed in their cowboy finest to enjoy food, drinks, and of course, good company. We also welcomed Servus Credit Union, presenting sponsor of our volunteer program. They have committed to providing funding for our volunteer program through 2025. We recognized the following individuals and their milestone volunteer achievements in 2023: 150 Volunteer Hours: Neil Watkins, Irwin Drefs, Darryl Tront, David Jordan, Zola Dandy Kibanga, Elaine Wagner, Paul Meade-Clift, Joe Sharma, Ogo Maduekwe, Colin Mackenzie, Kelly Gilliland, Geoff Baxter, Mike DeLong, Philip Merry, Jim Matheson, Haroon Siddique, Gebremedhin Zegeye, Chris Davies, Tadesse Zerihun, Alisha Lesjak, Amanda Alleyne, Laratu Barrie, Edgar Wierstra, Timour Beglov, Jack McLean, Michael Trottierm, Faysal Ibrahim, Fiona Munro, Max Vandersteen, Debasmita Bag, Emily Sexton, Antoninus Kimani, John Nelson, Inez Smith, Larry Davis, Larry Webber, Bill Webb, Henry Zverev, Brett Yuzyk-Sullivan, Ma Crisvir Lagare, Patrick Robertson, Toni Lasell, Joel Mohr, Dante Bremner, Lidiia Nedilko, Dane Mckay 500+ Volunteer Hours: Reno Laseur, Rick Delorme, Hank Fast, Gerry Borle, Ted McClung, Don Neufeld 3 Years of Volunteer Service: Larry Davis, Catherine Keill, Chuck Ham, Al Stempfle 5 Years of Volunteer Service: Jack McLean, Lindsay Smith, Kevin Cathro, Colin Lipsett, Inez Smith Special Contribution: Rick Delorme. ReStore South Award of Excellence: Joe Sharma  ReStore North Award of Excellence: Michael Trottier ReStore West Award of Excellence: Edgar Wierstra ReStore Sherwood Park Award of Excellence: Jack McLean  Construction Award of Excellence: John Nelson Habitat Canada Certificate of Recognition: Reno Laseur 10 Years of Volunteer Service: Fiona Munro, Patrick Robertson, Amy Chetwynd 20 Years of Volunteer Service: Ted McClung Group Volunteer Award: REALTORS® Community Foundation Don Neufeld Outstanding Volunteer: Geoff Baxter Thank you to our fantastic volunteers!

At Habitat Edmonton, we’re celebrating National Volunteer Week – presented by Servus Credit Union

“Volunteerism is the voice of the people put into action.  These actions shape and mold the present into a future of which we can all be proud.” – Helen Dyer Habitat for Humanity Edmonton is blessed to have the best volunteers on the planet. You’ll find our volunteers serving customers, unloading donations from vehicles, delivering flyers, entering data, answering phones, staging furniture, participating at events, and more – you’ll see their many faces in many places! Our 630 volunteers are keenly aware of the need for affordable homeownership in Edmonton and across northern Alberta. They serve come rain or shine (or snow, hail, sleet, or whatever storm has been stirred up for Albertans!) and they bring joy to our world day-in and day-out. This week we are proud to celebrate National Volunteer Week at Habitat Edmonton, presented by Servus Credit Union! Servus has committed to support the Volunteer Program at Habitat Edmonton through a presenting sponsorship over the next two years. Servus believes that every person deserves a safe and comfortable home, and they value volunteerism, community, and social responsibility. Their support of Habitat’s Volunteer Program embodies their commitment to creating a positive impact in the communities where they work, live, and play. To celebrate our partnership, Servus Credit Union designed the beautiful t-shirt (pictured below) which volunteers wear in our ReStores.  The t-shirt designed by Servus Credit Union highlights the significant impact of the volunteers’ commitment to build strong communities. The focus is on the volunteers — capturing their energy and efforts in providing affordable homeownership. The heart in the house symbolizes the compassion and dedication they infuse into their work. The ribbon represents their connection and engagement with the community, and the tree symbolizes the growth of a healthy and stable community. It should go without saying that volunteers are vital to the success of our program. Families, couples, and individuals across northern Alberta are empowered to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. In 2024, we look forward to welcoming more volunteers to ReStore and providing them with the opportunity to develop skills and produce tangible outcomes for people in our community. We see what Helen Dyer calls “the voice of the people” being put into action at our ReStores and in every area of Habitat. The success of our program is contingent upon the many hands that help. Many thanks to our presenting sponsor, Servus Credit Union, for empowering our volunteers to be change agents in the Edmonton area and beyond. Together, we are molding the present into a future of which we can all be proud. Happy National Volunteer Week!

Habitat’s 50/50 raffle!

Here’s your chance to win up to $10,000 with Habitat for Humanity Edmonton’s online 50/50 raffle! Proceeds from the raffle will help families build strength, stability, and independence through affordable home ownership.

How Jefferson discovered the key to affordable homeownership

On a warm and sunny day in 2022, Jefferson drove around his town of Rocky Mountain House. Despite the lovely weather, his thoughts were clouded with concern for his wife, Marisol, and his daughter, Eira. They all lived in his parents’ basement suite, which was quickly becoming inadequate for his family, especially considering they had a second child on the way. Jefferson had yet to secure a home that fit his growing family’s needs, despite trying for months. Every promising opportunity for homeownership was quickly crushed by expensive down payments and monthly mortgage payments. As he drove around town clearing his thoughts, a sign in front of a beautiful house that said, “Habitat for Humanity” caught his eye. Jefferson got out of his car to take a closer look. Although he didn’t know it at the time, this was the beginning of a homeownership journey that would transform his family’s life.    Learning about Habitat’s affordable homeownership program filled Jefferson with a mixture of joy and anxiety. This could be his chance to finally own a home and provide his family with the stability they desperately needed. On the other hand, he was nervous that his hopes would be crushed again. Despite his concern, Jefferson took the leap and applied. To his surprise, he soon received a call from Habitat inviting him to view the available homes in his community and choose his future home. “I was confused when I got the call and so I asked her, ‘what do you mean?’,” said Jefferson. “Habitat said ‘well, you’re approved!’ I was so excited and happy, and I immediately told my family.” Since moving, life has changed dramatically. The family is no longer cramped in a small basement suite – instead, children have their own rooms and a place to relax. Their home is in a safe neighbourhood with a spacious backyard, and the children have no shortage of space to play and run. For Jefferson and Marisol, owning a home has changed their lives. Marisol spends her free time gardening in the summers while Jefferson maintains the home. He’s proud of staining the deck and setting up a gazebo in the backyard. Gone are sleepless nights spent worrying about housing and affordability. When Jefferson drives around town, he enjoys the warm weather and sun, his thoughts no longer filled with concern about housing. Jefferson would like to extend a big thank you to everyone who helped him become a homeowner. With Habitat’s support, he was empowered to own his own home, and build strength, stability, and self-reliance for his family. Learn how you can own an affordable home.

The need for affordable housing in northern Alberta: how you can help

Habitat for Humanity Edmonton is mobilizing communities to address the need for affordable homeownership in communities across northern Alberta. The need for affordable housing and homeownership is on the rise. A March 2024 report shows 2-bedroom rent prices in Edmonton have climbed by 15.7% to $1,639 since March 2023, which places enormous strain on the ability for households to save for a down payment and pushes homeownership further out of reach. Last year Edmonton (and all of Alberta) experienced a surge in migrants as well as a significant decrease of housing starts. This has added to increased house prices, high inflation, and other factors that have dampened the ability to purchase a home. Some home buyers in Canada are trying to attain homeownership by co-buying with family and friends to sneak their toe in the door of the market. Habitat Edmonton remains focused on adding more affordable homes to the market. We are completing a duplex in Edmonton, four homes in Cold Lake, and preparing for builds in Sherwood Park and Leduc. Alongside new construction, we provide Edmontonians (and others across northern Alberta) with an option to purchase an affordable home through our Buy Back program. There is an urgency to provide people with adequate housing, and Habitat frees up rental properties by transitioning eligible Edmontonians from renting into owning. We are proud of our legacy – we’ve helped over 880 households experience the strength, stability, and self-reliance that comes from being a homeowner. We need financial support to continue to build homes and offer homeownership to those who need it most. Please consider donating to Habitat for Humanity. Your donation allows us to build homes and serve Albertans through our affordable homeownership program. Amanda’s story in the video below shows one family’s unique approach to homeownership that was facilitated by Habitat Edmonton.

Boost your donation by $20 this month!

This month, you can increase the impact of your gift with CanadaHelps’ Make it Monthly campaign. Throughout March, CanadaHelps will make an extra $20 donation for every new monthly gift of $20 or more! Monthly donations provide consistent and stable funding that allows us to make long term plans for affordable homeownership across northern Alberta. View Make it Monthly terms and conditions.

Habitat for Humanity and partners begin build to address affordable housing in Cold Lake, Alberta.

COLD LAKE, ALBERTA. Habitat for Humanity (Habitat) and supporters gathered to celebrate the official start of Habitat’s latest build in the City of Cold Lake. Four single-family homes are under construction by Value Master Homes with a completion anticipated for late summer or early fall. The homes present an opportunity for four families, couples, or singles to become homeowners in an increasingly difficult housing market. Their monthly payments will be affordable and will provide them with the foundation for a promising future. When the occupants are ready to move on from the Habitat program, they sell their homes back to Habitat and use their equity to buy a home on the open market or for other meaningful life goals. Habitat is proud to partner with the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Government of Alberta, City of Cold Lake, and Value Master Homes to complete the homes. Since 2019, the Government of Canada has made a total funding commitment of $2.8 M  through the Affordable Housing Fund under the National Housing Strategy towards Habitat Edmonton projects, including these homes. “By working with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, we are committed to ensuring that every Canadian has a safe place to call their own,” said the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “Today’s announcement is an example of what strong partnerships can do to help build more affordable homes across the country. I wish these families all the best as they prepare for this exciting new journey.” In March 2023, the Government of Canada and Habitat for Humanity Canada announced an additional $25 million investment to build 500 new affordable homes across Canada over the next three years. This brings the total federal investment in Habitat for Humanity to $80.8 million through the Government of Canada’s Affordable Housing Fund. The Government of Alberta has been a prominent supporter of Habitat’s program across the province since 2005 and has invested $400,000 in the build at Cold Lake.   “All Albertans, from those living in our biggest cities to our smallest communities, deserve a safe and affordable place to call home,” said the Honourable Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services. “Alberta’s government is proud to support this project and I’d like to thank Habitat for Humanity for helping provide housing for those in-need in Cold Lake.” The City of Cold Lake had set aside lots to donate to Habitat and will bring the total to six Habitat homes in the community. “Cold Lake is happy to see the continued success of Habitat for Humanity in our community,” said Mayor Craig Copeland. “Providing affordable housing along with the pride and sense of accomplishment that comes with homeownership builds a strong, inclusive foundation from which our community can continue to grow together without leaving people behind.” Occupants will be selected closer to the completion of the homes and must meet Habitat’s eligibility requirements, which includes an annual income between $45,000 and $75,000. “Alongside our partners and supporters, Habitat is addressing the need for affordable housing in Cold Lake,” said Dr. Ann-Marie Reddy, President & CEO, Habitat Edmonton. “Building affordable housing requires substantial capital investment and strong collaboration to address the complex issues of housing affordability. This build is a perfect example of a collaborative approach that will lead to more innovative, sustainable and community centered solutions.”

Homeownership: even better than Hammou and Ibtissam imagined

When you think of home, you might imagine a house or a duplex, filled with the laughter and love. The house may be big, small, blue, white, and one storey, or maybe two. Perhaps it’s nestled in a quiet neighbourhood, or in busy downtown. What you imagine will be different than those around you; however, it is safe to assume that the home you imagine is a safe and affordable place to relax at the end of the day. Safety and affordability are exactly what Hammou and his family had pined for, but were not able to reach. Every couple of years, Hammou had to uproot his family to relocate to a new apartment in Edmonton. The family could not afford the rent. He grew frustrated as his wife, Ibtissam, his son, Kareem, and his daughter, Rodinna continued to be separated from the relationships they built in each neighbourhood time and again. Hammou wanted nothing more than to provide a stable home for his growing children, but saving for a down payment on a home was a major obstacle. Until that down payment came, he would be forced to rent and then move when the rent increased. While speaking with a friend, Hammou learned about the Habitat program. That house he had imagined – could it be possible? As a life-long renter, he was overwhelmed by the possibility of homeownership, and applied immediately. He found the application process easy and, before he knew it, Hammou was approved as a Habitat homeowner. He shared the good news with Ibtissam, “Finally, we will get a home for ourselves!” Hammou says moving into his home was unforgettable; a moment that would be forever etched in his memory. While their old apartments had limited space, his Habitat home has enough room for a growing family of four. The neighbourhood is filled with families, so his children have plenty of other kids to play with, and his daughter’s school is a short walk from their home. The family has freedom to decorate their home as they please, and even after living there for two years, Rodinna continues to ask to paint her room in different colours. Calmness has flooded the home and worries about the need to suddenly pack up belongings and move have subsided. The family has stability, and growing stronger and more confident each day. Hammou is grateful to Habitat for the hand-up into homeownership. The down payment obstacle was removed, and the family is now flourishing. Although he says thank you is not enough, he is eternally appreciative of how he has been empowered to build strength, stability, and self-reliance. Learn how you can own an affordable home.

From shelves to lawns: how Geoff volunteers at ReStore

Geoff is surrounded by family members who love to volunteer. While Geoff was growing up, his mother volunteered anywhere she could, and his wife regularly spends time at seniors’ programs, elementary school reading programs, and children’s programs in their community. It is no wonder then that Geoff himself loves to donate his time to Habitat for Humanity.  Despite spending a great deal of his time volunteering at Habitat, you won’t be able to find Geoff in just one place. From November to April, he lends a hand in our ReStores, helping anywhere he is needed. This includes unloading donations from trucks or helping customers on the floor. In the summer, Geoff parts ways with the internal side of ReStore and instead spends his sunny days maintaining the lawns and properties at two of our Edmonton ReStores. Geoff has long enjoyed lawn maintenance, having created his own landscaping company while in university. His support of Habitat began when, after retiring, he didn’t want to part ways with his passion, and so he uses his landscaping skills where he can for Habitat. When Geoff heard about ReStore, he was hooked, and he has volunteered both inside and outside of ReStore since.  As a believer in Habitat’s philosophy of a “hand-up, not handout”, Geoff understands how the Habitat program transforms lives and leads to generational change. He loves to support those in his community who need affordable homeownership and, through his volunteer work at ReStore, he knows he is playing a part in empowering them. He has seen firsthand how hard Habitat’s homeowners work to own their home and how appreciative they are for the opportunity. In addition to the community support, Geoff loves to volunteer at ReStore because of the people. Having travelled to over 50 countries for work, he has met many people in his lifetime and wants to meet more! From volunteers and staff to ReStore customers, Geoff enjoys getting to know people, and he brings plenty of friends to volunteer with him at ReStore. The next time you visit a ReStore, keep an eye out for Geoff. He might be inside helping customers or outside tending to the lawn, but either way, he is making positive change in his community. Learn how you can volunteer at ReStore.

Habitat for Humanity to hold an Open House in Cold Lake

Are you interested in owning an affordable home in Cold Lake? Habitat for Humanity is holding an Open House on February 28, and we invite you to visit us! This is a great opportunity to learn more about the Habitat program and the affordable homeownership opportunities that will be available in Cold Lake. when: February 28, 2024 from 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm where: Grand Centre Alliance Church – 5403 56 Street, Cold Lake If you had any questions about this event, feel free to email us at community@hfh.org!

Homeowner Services moves locations

Effective February 6, 2024, Habitat for Humanity Edmonton’s Homeowner Services will be operating from the Habitat Centre at 8210 Yellowhead Trail NW, Edmonton. We are excited to have all our administrative staff back into the same building. Homeowner Services can still be reached at 780-453-2979 or through the Main Office: 780-479-3566. All email addresses remain unchanged. Please update your contact information if necessary. Thank you so much!

From building homes to stocking shelves: why Elaine volunteers at ReStore

For the past 16 years, Elaine has spent her free time volunteering at Habitat Edmonton. She began volunteering when, after retiring as a teacher, she was looking for volunteer opportunities. She had heard of Habitat and decided to help on a build site in Edmonton’s Norwood community. She was impressed with the efficiency of the build, and so she continued to volunteer on build sites across Edmonton. After learning several interesting and unique skills, Elaine paused her volunteer work with Habitat until the South ReStore was opened in 2017. Elaine was drawn to ReStore because she loves to organize. After attending a volunteer session, she was hooked, and has volunteered at ReStore ever since. She focuses most of her time on stocking and organizing shelves, so customers can more easily locate items. She likes to stand back and look at the many items available at ReStore, marveling at how many items are diverted from the landfill. She believes that we should walk gently on the earth, avoiding overconsumption and discarding items that are still useful. She values how ReStore provides well-loved items with a second life. Helping others who need a hand-up is also important to Elaine, and she believes that we “all do better when we all do better.” She knows that when a parent has a safe and stable home, they can make positive, generational change in their family and community. Elaine says volunteering at ReStore is a symbiotic relationship, as she gets as much out of volunteering as families get out of Habitat’s affordable homeownership program. At the end of each day, Elaine feels happy knowing she is helping to provide a hand-up to families in her community. Meeting people and getting to know them is another reason why Elaine volunteers at ReStore. After hitting it off with another volunteer, Elaine and her new friend spent time together outside of volunteering. Although her friend has since moved, Elaine keeps in touch with her. Elaine has also made friendships with some Habitat homeowners she volunteers alongside as well as ReStore staff. Thanks to volunteers like Elaine, we continue to divert items from the landfill and empower families through affordable homeownership. Learn how you can volunteer at ReStore.

Habitat Edmonton’s Holiday 50/50 Raffle

Habitat Edmonton congratulates our holiday 50/50 raffle winner, Colin Mackenzie! He won a total of $8,500 with winning ticket #D-7603. Every 50/50 ticket purchased for this raffle will empower families in our community to become homeowners. To be notified when our next raffle is available, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or X.

Servus Credit Union shows their support of volunteerism in the community through a presenting sponsorship of Habitat’s Volunteer Program. 

Servus Credit Union (Servus) announced their support of Habitat for Humanity Edmonton’s (Habitat) volunteer program through a presenting sponsorship over the next two years. Habitat relies heavily on community partners to provide Albertans who qualify with an opportunity to own an affordable home so that they can focus on other meaningful goals in their lives outside of stable and affordable housing. “Volunteering is vital to the success of our homeownership program, and we are grateful to Servus for stepping up to provide a means to engage our volunteers,” said Dr. Ann-Marie Reddy, President & CEO, Habitat Edmonton. “Their sponsorship will allow us to properly equip our volunteers to have a tangible impact in our ReStores and in other areas of our organization.”  On January 10, Habitat raised a banner in their ReStore at 4004 99 Street that displays a design created by Servus for a tee shirt that demonstrates the importance of volunteerism in the community. The tee shirts will be worn by volunteers at the ReStores. Since 2020, Habitat has engaged between 800 and 1,000 volunteers per year to develop skills and produce tangible outcomes in the community. In 2023, over 35,000 hours were given by volunteers! Since 1991, Habitat, donors, and volunteers have empowered over 850 homeowners by bringing communities together to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. We can only continue the work because of the support of partners like Servus Credit Union. For more information about Servus Credit Union, visit: Why bank with Servus? – Servus Credit Union

12 Days of ReStore Contest

Thank you so much for playing the 12 Days of ReStore Contest! As a token of our appreciation, listen to our OWN version of The 12 Days of Christmas (with a little ReStore twist)! Happy holidays! WINNERS: (All winners have been contacted through Facebook direct message) Day 1: Kate S. Day 2: Michael K. Day 3: Marlaina E. Day 4: Stefanie K. Day 5: Kat W. Day 6: Michele-Fay Y. Day 7: Brenda W. Day 8: Anna Marie P. Day 9: Rogina C. Day 10: Pa Trisha M. Day 11: Edna L. Day 12: Rachelle G.

Walks in the park and at ReStore: why Henry volunteers

Henry is an avid walker. Only a few minutes from his home is a beautiful park, Bunchberry Meadows, which he regularly visits with his wife. While there, Henry spends time admiring the mix of trees, pines, spruce, and birch, and the array of berries scattered along the trail. This past summer, Henry says clusters of raspberries grew, filling the park with a bright beautiful red. It is hard to imagine anything that would pull Henry away from this gorgeous park, but there is another way he enjoys spending his free time: volunteering at ReStore. At ReStore, you will find Henry helping in any way he can. He unloads donations from trucks and helps customers load their purchases into their vehicles. He stocks shelves and prices items in addition to assembling furniture and fixing anything electrical that might need to be refurbished. Although Henry only began volunteering at ReStore in September, he already feels at home. He says that everyone at ReStore is helpful and supportive, and he loves spending time with staff and volunteers. Feeling valued at ReStore is one of the reasons why Henry continues to return. He knows how important it is to empower families through affordable homeownership and believes that Habitat is promoting positive values and encouraging people to do good in their community. Henry also knows that ReStore is helping the environment by providing people with a place to donate their well-loved items, or purchase used items instead of buying new. As an added bonus, ReStore provides Henry with a chance learn new skills and gain experience, so he appreciates that more people in his community can do the same. Henry feels happy at ReStore and says he leaves each day grateful to be a part of such a great organization. ReStore remains an important part of Henry’s life as he takes on other opportunities and activities, in addition to his walks in Bunchberry Meadows, of course. Learn how you can volunteer at ReStore.

Volunteering in all corners of Habitat

Meet John, one of Habitat Edmonton’s longtime volunteers. John’s journey with Habitat began in 2011, when he noticed an advertisement for volunteers on a Habitat Edmonton build site. He was thrilled to have found an opportunity that allowed him to fine tune his existing construction skills and wasted no time applying to volunteer. One project turned into many, and from 2011 to 2019, John participated on several build sites. He also participated on three Global Village Trips to Honduras, The Philippines, and the Dominican Republic. Eventually, John transitioned from build sites to a unique volunteer opportunity: checking in on vacant homes. In between homeowners viewing homes and getting their paperwork in order, John is tasked with visiting those vacant homes and ensuring all is well. Initially, he checked in on homes in West Edmonton where he lived, but he slowly added more homes to his list as time went on. Now, John checks in on homes all across the Edmonton area three times a week. John has always believed in supporting those less fortunate than himself. A retired High School teacher, John says he has been well blessed in life and chooses to spend his time helping those in need. Looking around his city, John wants to do everything he can to make a difference in the lives of families. He continues to volunteer his time at Habitat Edmonton as he believes in Habitat’s mission and has seen first-hand the transformational change an affordable home can make for a family. On his global village trips, John volunteered alongside families as they built their own homes. He recalls one homeowner in Honduras who, while building, repeatedly celebrated this this was “her house” with a big smile. In the Dominican Republic, he remembers laughing with a young boy who was speckled blue and yellow after painting his first room in his new home. In Edmonton, John spent time with young volunteers from training programs, teaching those who had never picked up a hammer how to pound nails and operate saws. By the end of the day, he saw them framing complete walls on their own. To John, his favourite part of volunteering is simply giving his time. In addition to Habitat, he volunteers at his church and donates to a number of charities. We are so grateful to have a dedicated volunteer like John! Learn more about volunteering at Habitat Edmonton.

How homeownership made transformational change in Tesfamichael’s life

Tesfamichael, his wife Senait, and their three children moved into their Habitat home in August. Transitioning from a small townhouse, his family was amazed at the amount of space they now had in their Habitat home and knew that life would never be the same.   It wasn’t an easy start for the family. Tesfamichael decided it was time to find a new home for his family when Senait wanted to pursue employment. Unfortunately, they discovered that if she did get a job, their rent would increase. An increase in rent was not in the family’s budget, so Tesfamichael started looking for a new rental home. It wasn’t until his friend encouraged him to apply for Habitat homeownership that Tesfamichael thought owning a home was even a possibility. Nervous but excited, Tesfamichael applied for Habitat homeownership. Having completed the first step, Tesfamichael said he was “very, very happy”. A short while later he received word that he was approved for a mortgage on the Habitat home. He wasted no time and immediately shared the great news with his family, who were so thrilled they asked if they could move into their home that very minute! Now, Tesfamichael’s three children live in a home that fits their needs. While their last home had a backyard, there was little room for the kids to play or for Tesfamichael and Senait to relax. The kids now run freely in the backyard. His daughter enjoys decorating her room, and Tesfamichael and Senaite also decorate their house with their personal tastes. Tesfamichael says their Habitat home is a step-up from their previous home, and as he looks around, he notices that everyone in his home is happy. For Tesfamichael, homeownership is happiness. He no longer worries about paying rent each month, and his wife can work. Her employment will grow her confidence and independence and will empower both parents as they save for their children’s future. Tesfamichael encourages anyone interested in owning a home to apply for Habitat homeownership. He does not have enough words to explain how grateful he is for the support he has received and is thankful for the opportunity to own his own home. Learn how you can take control of your future through Habitat homeownership.

Habitat Canada’s Affordable Housing Survey: the results and what it means for Edmonton

We are living in a time where homeownership is growing out of reach for many of our family, friends, and neighbours. Affordability is the key issue. An inability to save for a down payment or qualify for a traditional mortgage keeps potential homeowners on the sidelines of the housing market. Habitat aims to empower families through homeownership that they can afford. Homeownership creates powerful, transformational, and generational change, and empowers parents to exit the rent cycle and take control of their future, so they can provide their children with a safe and stable home. Habitat Canada’s second Affordable Housing Survey reviews Canadians’ concerns about affordable housing across the country. View the Affordable Housing Survey results below and read more here.

Why Larry loves volunteering at ReStore 

Larry was newly retired and looking for ways to fill his time. He had learned about ReStore and inquired about volunteering, but decided it was the place for him when Habitat announced we would be opening a ReStore in Sherwood Park. The store is a short 10-minute drive from his home, so Larry took it as a sign and began volunteering. Larry installed shelving and stocked shelves a few days a week at ReStore Sherwood Park, readying the store for opening day. Now that the store is open, he enjoys unloading donations, pricing items, and assisting customers. When he isn’t at ReStore, Larry travels to the United States to participate on builds, helping families in need of affordable homeownership to build strength, stability, and self-reliance. Having already participated in two Habitat builds in the United States, Larry is looking forward to more in the future. He also enjoys volunteering at special events for Habitat Edmonton, such as greeting visitors home shows. Larry believes in supporting families in his community. He likes to offer a hand-up to those that may need support and do as much as he can to make their lives a little better. Since all proceeds from every ReStore purchase are reinvested into Habitat, Larry’s volunteer efforts at ReStore empower families in his community through affordable homeownership. Every minute that Larry spends volunteering at ReStore means families in his community can create stability for their children’s future, supporting them for years to come. Larry also enjoys visiting with customers and meeting new people, and volunteering at ReStore means he can help customers find specific and unique items they might be looking for. We are thrilled to have Larry as a regular volunteer at ReStore Sherwood Park. Next time you drop by, be sure to say hello! Learn how you can volunteer at ReStore.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Today, Habitat Edmonton observed National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at our ReStore. We welcomed an elder who delivered a teaching, traditional dancers, drummers, and traditional beading was available to purchase. Take a look at some photos below. https://hfh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/REEL-national-day-for-truth-and-reconciliation.mp4

Chuck’s love for ReStore

When Chuck isn’t working on and showing off his 1921 Ford Model T, you can find him supporting several charitable organizations. Chuck regularly donates blood and visits seniors’ homes to display his car and chat with residents. It is no surprise that, due to his charitable nature, Chuck also loves spending his time volunteering at ReStore. Chuck learned about ReStore from a friend who invited him to volunteer and, by the end of his first day, Chuck had a blast. He was eager to spend more of his time at ReStore and inquired about helping at the new ReStore in Sherwood Park. He began volunteering long before it opened its doors to the public and spent his days stocking shelves and preparing the store for customers. When we opened the Sherwood Park store in 2021, Chuck continued to volunteer at ReStore. Now he can be found in the back of the store, testing donations and repairing items for sale. He is happy to help with whatever needs to be done, such as electrical work or stocking shelves.  Chuck chooses to spend his time at ReStore because he believes in Habitat’s work in his community. He gets a good feeling knowing that his time is giving families a hand-up so they can become homeowners. Chuck also likes visiting with staff and volunteers at ReStore. He feels welcomed and enjoys the positive attitude and happiness that surrounds him as he volunteers. It is thanks to the support of wonderful volunteers like Chuck that Habitat Edmonton can continue to help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. Learn how you can volunteer at ReStore!

A Family’s Life Transformed

When Wendy reflects on life before she owned her Habitat home, she can hardly believe how much has changed. When she first came to Canada and settled in Edson, finding an affordable home was difficult. Wendy ended up sharing not just an apartment, but a bed with her aunt for six long years. Eventually, Wendy moved into a basement suite after marrying her husband, Alexander, and they had their first child. The basement suite was a large, empty room, where all three family members shared a foam mattress and slept close at night when the heater wasn’t working. When Wendy found out she was pregnant with her second child, she and her husband knew their family needed a safe and stable place to live, but thought that owning a home wasn’t possible. After all, she knew many families who lived in Canada for decades and still didn’t own a home. One day everything changed when Wendy saw an ad for Habitat homeownership and discovered she was eligible. Although not expecting a response, Wendy submitted her application and moved on with the busyness of her day. She was determined not to get her hopes up but remained excited at the idea of being a homeowner. It wasn’t until a week later when she learned she was approved that Wendy realized owning a home was possible for her family. Ten days after Wendy gave birth to her second child and months after she applied for Habitat homeownership, she held the keys to her home in her hand. “I remember telling Alexander that this was the first key that was my own,” said Wendy. “Even in the Philippines we didn’t own our home.” Moving in with a newborn and a one-year-old had its challenges, but eventually, the family settled into their Habitat home. Wendy’s oldest son enjoyed crawling around their home, something he couldn’t do in their small basement suite. Now that her children have grown older, they run around outside and play as loudly as they like without Wendy worrying about disturbing the neighbours. Wendy enjoys cooking in her own kitchen. In her rentals she had to ask permission to use the shared facilities. She now decorates her home exactly how she likes. A big fan of the holidays, Wendy decorated her home for Halloween in September, days after they moved into the house. Her holidays are filled with happiness and memories. Wendy is grateful for Habitat. She struggles to imagine her children’s future without their home and is relieved to know they will never need to live in an unsafe or unstable home. She encourages everyone in her life to consider Habitat homeownership, reminding them that owning a home creates a pathway to generational change.  Learn about how Habitat helps families own a home.

Municipal Leaders Build

With World Habitat Day around the corner, municipal leaders from across the capital region convened to lend their hands framing a basement on the Orest Myckan Legacy Build. They saw firsthand how Habitat for Humanity Edmonton enacts sustainable and generational change for individuals, families, and communities. Through Habitat’s affordable homeownership program, families move from renting to owning a home, empowering them to focus on other meaningful life goals instead of stable housing. Take a look at photos from the municipal leaders build. https://hfh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/municipal-leaders-build-2.mp4

Habitat for Humanity Edmonton welcomes municipal leaders to address affordable homeownership in the capital region while participating on a Habitat build

September 13, 2023 EDMONTON, ALBERTA. With World Habitat Day around the corner, municipal leaders from across the capital region convened to lend their hands framing a basement and to see firsthand how Habitat for Humanity Edmonton (Habitat) enacts sustainable and generational change for individuals, families, and communities. Through an affordable homeownership program, Habitat provides a way for families to move from renting to owning a home, empowering them to focus on other meaningful life goals instead of stable housing. Habitat relies on partnerships with municipalities, homebuilders, and developers to carry out their life-changing homeownership program. “With housing affordability being a pressing concern, municipal leaders have joined us to see how Habitat for Humanity addresses the issue through our homeownership program,” said Dr. Ann-Marie Reddy, President and CEO of Habitat Edmonton. “The impact of affordable homeownership on families is both immediate and long-term. Through owning a home, parents are able to build equity and save funds, which sets up their children for a successful future.” Habitat operates a Buy Back program that allows Habitat to repurchase homes from homeowners. The homeowner receives their equity, and Habitat is then able to use the home to serve another family. As the result of the Buy Back program, Habitat has helped an additional 290 families access affordable homeownership. Habitat’s model is sustainable and empowers families to move from renting to eventually purchasing a home on the open market. Habitat has brought communities together to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership since 1991. To date, Habitat has constructed 369 homes in communities in the capital region – Edmonton, Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Fort Saskatchewan, Devon, Stony Plain, Leduc, and Spruce Grove – and is open to building in other capital region communities in need of affordable homeownership. -30- About Habitat for Humanity Edmonton Habitat brings communities together to help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. For more information about how Habitat for Humanity Edmonton is empowering families through affordable homeownership, visit HFH.org. Media inquires, please contact: Kyle Keller Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications Habitat for Humanity Edmonton communications@hfh.org 780-479-3566

Building affordable homeownership together

For over a decade, the REALTORS® Community Foundation (RCF) has supported Habitat Edmonton. With their help, Habitat Edmonton has empowered hundreds of families to take control of their future and become homeowners. By donating and giving their time, realtors from across Edmonton bring affordable homeownership to families in our community. The RCF has brought realtors together to give back to their community for over 30 years. This year, they made their largest gift in history when they donated $200,000 to Habitat Edmonton. Supporting grassroots organizations within their community is a focus for the RCF, and with similar goals and values, a partnership between Habitat Edmonton and the RCF was an easy decision. “As realtors, we know the impact that homeownership makes in a persons life, and Habitat’s work aligns perfectly with what we do,” says Nicole Mackoway, Interim Executive Director, REALTORS® Community Foundation. “It’s great to provide people with that feeling of ownership and pride.” In addition to donating, many RCF members have been participating on a Habitat build site. This has shown them firsthand how their support is transforming lives. Over the next year, REALTORS® Community Foundation members will continue to help build two homes on the Orest Myckan Legacy Build for families in Edmonton’s Montrose community. “It’s very exciting to have the opportunity to swing a hammer,” says Nicole. “Habitat’s work aligns so well with realtors who will have a chance to see first-hand how a house is built.” With the ongoing affordable housing conversation, it is clear that homeownership is out of reach for so many Albertans. Many families are ready to own a home, but expensive down payments and being stuck in the rent cycle might keep them from realizing their dream. Nicole says that the RCF appreciates how Habitat empowers families who need a hand-up into homeownership. Habitat Edmonton is grateful for the support the RCF has provided over the past decade. Together, we continue to empower families to become homeowners.

How homeownership transformed Cheryl’s life

Cheryl’s memory of the first time she stepped into her Habitat home is crystal clear. When she received the news that she would become a homeowner, she was too excited to wait for her sons to get home, so she jumped in her car and headed over to her new home. Cheryl quickly got to work picking out each room for her family. She knew her oldest son, Logan, would need storage space for his collectables, so she chose the room with the biggest closets. She picked out the guest room, where Cheryl’s daughter and her daughter’s husband would stay when they visited, a room for herself, and one for her youngest son. Almost too excited to speak, Cheryl was ready to pack everything up and move-in that instant. At the time, Cheryl lived in a small home and had received word that her rent would be increasing. Cheryl and her sons had started packing, but unsure of where to go, their belongings sat at the front door. While looking for options, Cheryl came across an available Habitat home and thought it would be perfect for her family. The three-storey home had four bedrooms and a basement, a much better living arrangement than they currently had. It also had a backyard, where Cheryl envisioned a vegetable garden, and flowers in the front. Without a second thought, Cheryl send in her application and waited patiently. Shortly after Cheryl learned she was approved, she and her sons began packing the rest of their things as quickly as they could. With only two weeks to move, everything was a blur, and Cheryl is still finding herself unpacking boxes months later. Each time she opens another box, she is reminded that she now owns a safe and stable home. She does not need to worry about increases in rent or finding a new home, and she is able to pick up old hobbies like sewing and gardening. Their old home’s 22 stairs to the fourth floor made Cheryl feel like she was climbing Mount Everest each day, but their Habitat home is much more accessible. Owning a home has made transformational change in her children’s lives as well. Logan’s collectables no longer sit in bins, but are proudly displayed in his room. During hectic mornings, two showers provide plenty of getting-ready space, and the boys enjoy the close proximity to downtown and shopping malls, providing them with more independence. Homeownership has transformed Cheryl’s life, and she is proud. She said it tickles her heart every time she remembers she owns a home. Learn how you can own an affordable home.

Habitat’s Buy Back program

Habitat’s Buy Back program: how Habitat Edmonton amplifies our impact and generational change. At Habitat Edmonton, we empower families to make positive, generational changes through affordable homeownership. By providing a hand-up into homeownership, parents can exit the rent cycle and gain control of their future. One of the ways we serve families in our community is through our Buy Back program (see video). In 2005, a forward-thinking group of leaders initiated the first buy-back program in Canada. This sustainable program provides Habitat with the option to repurchase a home from a family when they are ready to transition into market homeownership or move on to other meaningful life goals. The home is then renovated, if necessary, and used to serve another family. One home will remain in Habitat’s affordable housing pool, allowing us to serve families for generations. To date, over 280 families became homeowners through the Buy Back program (which comprises 44% of the number of families we have served). The cost to serve a family through the Buy Back program is a fraction of what it costs to serve a family through new construction. Over the past five years, we have served an average of 30 families a year through Buy Backs.  By fulfilling the needs of our communities, Habitat Edmonton is making positive, long-term changes. Read more. Listen to how Jessica and Jordan became homeowners through Habitat’s Buy Back program:

Volunteering That Drives Positive Change

Three years ago, Joe received an invitation from a friend to volunteer at Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Little did he know that a single day of volunteering would turn into three years of joy and fulfillment. Joe used to work as a Communications Electrician, testing and repairing phones across the province. When he retired, he wanted to stay active in a meaningful way and keep using his skills. Joe was searching for a volunteer opportunity where he could utilize his expertise, and it was during his first day at ReStore that he knew it was the place for him. Joe puts his years of experience as an electrician to good use by fixing donated items at ReStore. His dislike for waste and desire to give items a second life drew him to ReStore. Each time Joe repairs an item, he keeps it from landfill while helping Habitat Edmonton bring affordable homeownership to families. Being an immigrant himself, Joe understands the challenges that many face when seeking affordable homeownership, so supporting Habitat’s homeownership program is even more meaningful to him. The people at ReStore bring a smile to Joe and warm his heart. He enjoys engaging with other volunteers and staff, learning about their experiences. In return, he shares his valuable knowledge. He takes pleasure in teaching others how to fix items and expand their skill set. One Habitat homeowner was volunteering as part of her 500 volunteer hours, and Joe quickly became a mentor. Although she initially didn’t know much about electronics, over time, Joe taught her what she needed to know to bring electronics back to life. After completing her 500 volunteer hours, the homeowner continued volunteering at ReStore and, with the skills Joe taught her, is able to upkeep electronics both at the store and in her home. When Joe leaves ReStore at the end of the day, he feels great, as if a weight has been lifted off his shoulders. He knows he is empowering families in his community, and that is exactly why he plugs-in at the ReStore each week. Habitat is grateful to the generous volunteers and mentors like Joe, who make it possible to help families gain control over their future through affordable home ownership. Volunteer at ReStore today!

Amy’s Journey to Independence

Amy and her daughter, Isabelle, lived in low-income housing in Grande Prairie, Alberta. The longer Amy spent in her apartment, the more she realized it was not where she wanted to raise Isabelle. The apartment was unsafe: broken kitchen tiles and a moldy bathroom were a few things making life difficult. Amy longed to live in a home where Isabelle had space to run and play and be a child. Amy desperately wanted a change, however, alternative living situations were unaffordable. Expensive rent and down payments prevented them for the change they needed. Improving their living situation seemed less realistic each day. Everything changed for Amy when she graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration and Accounting in November. Although she was thrilled at the idea of a better job and more income, Amy knew that she would no longer qualify for her low-income home. And yet, an apartment and homeownership was still out of her reach. Amy was scared, and didn’t know how she was going to find an affordable home for her daughter. A few years prior, Amy’s friend had purchased a Habitat home. She didn’t think that the opportunity would be available for her; however, her friend encouraged her to apply. Wasting no time, Amy visited hfh.org. Scrolling through the available homes, she was thrilled to see one available in Grande Prairie, and best of all, the home was just down the street from her friend! She filled out an application, but quickly found herself feeling anxious. Amy’s friend, having applied before, understood why Amy was anxious and tried to put her at ease. She repeatedly told Amy to stop worrying, certain that her friend would soon be her neighbor, but even with her friend’s support, Amy remained nervous. “I remember thinking, ‘if I get this home, it would be so great,’” said Amy. “We won’t have to live in an apartment or basement anymore. Our lives would be so awesome.” As it turns out, Amy didn’t need to worry. Waking up one morning, she was speechless to find an email with good news – she would soon be a homeowner! Moving day couldn’t come soon enough, and in April of 2022, Amy and Isabelle set foot in their home for the first time. The moving experience was a blur, and although Amy doesn’t remember much, she does recall feeling safe and secure. She and Isabelle are now settled, and Amy notes that there are almost too many positives about their home to count. They have a backyard where Isabelle plays and a garage for Amy to safely park her car. Their neighbourhood has plenty of other families so Isabelle is always playing with other children, and Amy is confident sending her daughter outside to play.   Amy and Isabelle now enjoy three bedrooms. A full basement and a large kitchen provide plenty of space and privacy. Isabelle can invite her friends over and, with the extra space, they can store their bikes in the garage and stay for a sleepover. Amy has noticed that Isabelle is generally happier. The home offers Amy peace of mind. She feels safe and comfortable, and enjoys the stability of homeownership without fear of increases in rent or needing to suddenly move. This home is her own, and she can change and decorate it how she wants. All the extra space provides Amy with the chance to start new hobbies, and she is looking forwards to planting a garden and a flower bed. Amy cannot recommend Habitat homeownership enough. She shares with everyone how Habitat has offered her independence and has provided a hand-up when homeownership seemed like a distant dream. Learn how you can become a homeowner.  

How your organization can help families become homeowners

Even after saving many years for a down payment, 28% of Canadians are still at square one in their pursuit of homeownership, according to a 2022 Habitat for Humanity Canada affordable housing survey. A home of their own remains out of reach while their housing situations grow more and more stressful. Climbing interest rates and rental costs push them further away from ownership, and there is seemingly no reprieve in sight. Affordable housing continues to be a hot topic in Canadian conversations, as it should be. It is an issue that concerns us all. Habitat for Humanity has had a strong voice in that conversation in Edmonton since 1991, as we have helped over 850 families through our affordable home ownership program. Applicants do not need to save for a down payment, and our unique mortgage model puts them on the path to home ownership much sooner in life, helping reduce stress and start to build equity for a promising future.   Habitat Edmonton is continuing to work towards a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live, and there are a couple simple ways you can help us do just that: First, you can let others know that there IS an affordable way to own a home. Our program requirements have recently changed, and we are proud to open to our doors to families, couples, seniors, and singles. Now anybody can apply to become a Habitat homeowner at HFH.org. Secondly, we require your support. There are many ways to contribute to Habitat: cash donations, Team Building Days on site, or donations to our ReStore are just a few. Thank you for keeping affordable housing and homeownership a topic in Alberta and Canada. Together, we can make a big difference for those in our community.

Donna’s and Albert’s journey to empowerment

Donna and Albert sat on the floor of their empty apartment, filled with excitement and anticipation about moving. Having just received keys to their Habitat home, all their possessions were still packed away in boxes. The next day, they would move into their own home. They were homeowners; their dream for many years was now a reality. The road to homeownership was not easy for Donna and Albert. Arriving in Canada from The Philippines over 13-years ago, they settled in a small, crowded apartment that they shared with two other families. Since she was pregnant with their first child, Donna desperately wanted to own a home, but rent and expensive down payments put homeownership out of reach. Having worked as a government employee in The Philippines, Donna knew that affordable housing programs existed and started searching for an equivalent in Canada. This led her to Habitat for Humanity and, in 2014, Donna applied for a home. Their first application was unsuccessful, but Donna and Albert persevered and reapplied for homeownership in 2018. Again, their second application was unsuccessful. Donna was worried and discouraged, thinking homeownership was not for her family. Despite her concerns, Donna continuously checked HFH.org for available homes in their community of Slave Lake, and in March, one became available. Donna applied, and was thrilled to receive a call to let her know that she would finally be a homeowner. While she jumped for joy, Albert couldn’t believe his ears, and thought after eight long years he might be dreaming. Eventually, reality set in, and the two got to work preparing for their new home. Donna’s and Albert’s son, Dhon, is equally as excited about their new home. Although they only visited it once, Donna noticed that he already looks happier. It isn’t surprising that Dhon is so excited, since they shared one bedroom between the three of them in their old apartment. This made life difficult, as Dhon’s parents had to restrict his noise and playtime not to disturb their roommates and neighbours. In their Habitat home, Donna is looking forward to providing her son with more freedom. A large backyard means plenty of space for Dhon to play, and his own bedroom will provide him with independence. Donna and Albert have wasted no time in making the home their own. Beautiful flowers brightened their front porch mere hours after receiving their keys. Albert sees their home as a fresh start, and he can rest easy knowing every payment is an investment in his future. Donna can’t wait to watch Dhon play and grow, and is grateful for the safety and stability the home will bring to him and future children. Donna and Albert haven’t kept quiet about their Habitat home. In fact, they’ve shared the news with everyone they know, and encouraged anyone in a situation similar to theirs to apply for homeownership. Albert believes that their story will encourage more families in Slave Lake and northern Alberta to become homeowners with Habitat’s help. View our available homes and become a homeowner today!

Re-Inventing at ReStore

If you’ve ever visited ReStore and chatted about upcycling with a volunteer, you might have met Inez! Five years ago, Inez retired and was searching for somewhere to volunteer. When a friend invited her to an orientation day to learn more about volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, she noticed that her values strongly aligned with Habitat’s. Providing a hand-up, not a handout, caught Inez’s attention, and she decided that Habitat was where she wanted to volunteer her time. At the time, her options ranged from special events to volunteering in the office, but after years of working in finance, Inez was looking for a new experience. The more she considered her options, the more she realized that ReStore had the answers. ReStore has been Inez’s home-away-from-home for the last five years, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. ReStore is important to her because it helped her rediscover herself. Inez believes in reducing waste, and ReStore helps her show others the joy in “re”, encouraging them to re-use and re-love items. Inez feels encouraged as she watches customers see life in something used, and she likes to imagine the art they will create out of items they purchased at ReStore. Conversing with customers is one of Inez’s favourite activities, and she loves experiencing “aha” moments, when customers find exactly what they’re looking for and their eyes sparkle. The team spirit Inez experiences makes her feel valued. The environment helps her rediscover what she misses about her career while she forms new connections and relationships. She enjoys her days at ReStore so much that everyone in her life knows not to bother her on Wednesdays because those are her ReStore days. Habitat is lucky to have a passionate volunteer like Inez on the ReStore team! Learn how you can volunteer at ReStore.

ReStore Customer Appreciation Day

We were delighted to host Customer Appreciation Day at 4004 99 Street! We had food, chances to win cool prizes, inflatable games, face-painting, 104.9FM on site, as well as a flower wall for photos. Best of all, everything in all four of our Edmonton area ReStores was 30%! If you missed it, you should subscribe to our weekly e-newsletter so that you don’t miss the next event! With our ReStore customers’ support, Habitat Edmonton continues to put keys in the hands of families across northern Alberta. Learn more about how ReStore supports Habitat Edmonton here. Let’s take a look at highlights from the day! 30% off was available on all purchases at every ReStore in the city! Customers across Edmonton and Sherwood Park enjoyed great items and a great sale. Virgin Radio (104.9 FM) joined us, sharing updates and providing fun music for our guests! Face painting was available for everyone, and several games were scattered throughout ReStore. A draw was held, where visitors could enter their name for a chance to win a $250 gift card to ReStore as well as four $50 certificates! An Instagram worthy flower wall with fun props was available for visitors to pose for their best photos. Taking a photo at the flower wall and tagging #explorerestore entered customers into a draw for a $50 ReStore certificate. Take a look at more photos from the event below:

Seeds of Growth: What is affordable homeownership?

Affordable homeownership and sustainable housing models normally do not belong in the same sentence, but we believe in challenging expectations. At Habitat for Humanity, we believe in the potential of our community and in finding ways to support you as you build strength and independence.

Orest Myckan Legacy Build kick-off celebration

On June 1, Habitat for Humanity Edmonton celebrated the start of the Orest Myckan Legacy Build presented by the REALTORS® Community Foundation. The project honours prolific volunteer Orest Myckan, who led over 30 trips around the world to build homes for families. In addition to his Global Village Trips, Orest volunteered regularly as a Crew Leader for Habitat Edmonton. The two homes will honour Orest’s legacy of providing safe and stable homes to families in our community. Read more about Orest and the build. This build will result in a duplex, which is also part of the Black Families Initiative. While over 68% of Canadians own their own home, Black people living in Canada experience systematic barriers and discrimination which results in a disproportionate lack of home ownership opportunities. This program address the racial disparity in home ownership and provides Black Canadians with the same opportunity to own a home that others benefit from. We were pleased to share the morning with the Myckan family, Eugene and Elfrida McTague who donated the land, as well as, Ashley Salvador, Councillor Ward Metis, and Aaron Robinson, President REALTORS® Community Foundation.

Habitat for Humanity and partners begin legacy build in memory of a volunteer with far-reaching global impact

June 01, 2023 EDMONTON, ALBERTA. Habitat for Humanity supporters gathered to celebrate the official start of the Orest Myckan Legacy Build, presented by the REALTORS® Community Foundation. The build is in memory of Habitat Edmonton volunteer Orest Myckan, who passed away in January of 2022. Orest left a strong legacy of volunteerism in Edmonton as well as the many developing countries in which he built Habitat homes for families. The land for the build was donated by Elfrida and Eugene McTague in Orest’s memory. When completed, the build will be a duplex serving two Edmonton families in need of affordable home ownership. Integral to the build is funding from the Government of Canada. Since 2019, the federal government has made a total funding commitment of $2,368,355 through the National Housing Co-Investment Fund (NHCF) under the National Housing Strategy towards Habitat Edmonton projects, including these homes. This funding commitment includes a Black Families Funding investment of $1,144,779. Black families, who are disproportionally left out of home ownership in Canada, will be the beneficiaries of the two homes. “Every Canadian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. Thanks to today’s announcement and in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Edmonton, two new homes will be created for deserving families – homes they can proudly call their own,” said The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion. “Housing affordability and social housing have been a main focus for our government and we have delivered on this together with Habitat for Humanity,” said the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism, Associate Minister of Finance and Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre “With today’s investment, we are providing more safe and affordable homes to Canadians, including in Edmonton. These investments will benefit families, businesses, and our community.” The REALTORS® Community Foundation has been a strong partner of Habitat Edmonton for over a decade and, as the lead supporter, has provided $200,000 towards the construction of the two homes. “The REALTORS® Community Foundation brings REALTORS® and industry stakeholders together to positively impact the communities they serve,” says Nicole Mackoway, Interim Executive Director, REALTORS® Community Foundation. “Our mission aligns with Habitat for Humanity, and the Orest Myckan build is something we are very proud to be a part of. There is also a lot of excitement from our REALTORS® membership, and many want to give their time to help bring these homes to reality.” The Government of Alberta has been a prominent supporter of Habitat’s program across the province since 2005, and has invested $200,000 in the Orest Myckan Legacy Build.   Families for the homes will be selected closer to the completion dates of the homes and will need to meet Habitat’s eligibility requirements. “Habitat helps fulfill the needs of our community, and drives positive, generational changes for those who want to own a home yet don’t have the means to qualify for a traditional mortgage, said Dr. Ann-Marie Reddy, President & CEO, Habitat Edmonton. “Families in our program move into affordable home ownership, then sell their home back to us when they are ready to move on. We then find another family to purchase the home. This is a proven cycle that transitions families from renting to affordable home ownership, and then to market home ownership.” – 30 – About Habitat for Humanity Edmonton Habitat brings communities together to help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable home ownership. For more information about Habitat for Humanity Edmonton, please visit HFH.org. Media inquires, please contact: Kyle KellerSenior Manager, Marketing & CommunicationsHabitat for Humanity Edmonton  communications@hfh.org780-479-3566

Unpacked for good: Rhea’s Story

How can we better support our kids to be confident and free to express themselves? Having the freedom to roam, make friendships and provide a safe and stable environment can transform hearts and minds. Rhea’s dream was for a home where her son and daughter could fully unpack without fear of moving and switching schools, and her life changed when she became a Habitat homeowner.

Free to be me: Amanda’s Story

How are you living unboxed? The answer varies from person to person, but at Habitat for Humanity Edmonton, we believe that living unboxed means having the freedom and the space to do something new that you have always wanted to do. Starting a garden, travelling, decorating rooms without restrictions – anything is possible!

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