Ground Broken for First Pulaski County Habitat for Humanity Home

By Steve Smith
The Pulaski County Democrat

Habitat for Humanity of Pulaski County broke ground for its first home Saturday, Dec. 21. More than 50 people gathered on a chilly morning for the ceremony. The event included Habitat officials, Waynesville Mayor Cliff Hammock and April Youman, who will live in the new home. Dick Hobbs of Habitat said the group's first home is only the beginning.

"Our work will not end with this house. We will continue until our goal of simple, decent housing for all families is met."

"With all of us working together I know we can meet our goals."

Hobbs said Habitat builds quality homes that provide a place without frills. He said the new home will be about 1,000 square-feet in size with three bedrooms and no garage. The volunteer-constructed home will be energy-efficient and will meet all building codes.

The family that will live in the home is asked to contribute 250 hours of "sweat equity" and will pay for the home. The group is beginning a fundraising drive called 100 Days of Habitat. Members are asking all friends of Habitat for Humanity to set aside $1 a day to fund construction of the house near the intersection of Historic route 66 and Missouri 17.

The goal is to complete work on the house in 100 days. This would allow Youman to take possession of the home in April. Youman, who will reside in the home with her two children, told those gathered for the ceremony that she is grateful to everyone helping with the project.

"It's all about God. He gave his son on Christmas and this is the greatest gift next to that, being accepted into this community," she said. " I ask that He bless everyone involved."

Cotributions may be sent to Habitat for Humanity, P.O. Box 527, Waynesville, MO 65583. For more information, see the web site, www.webound.com/habitat or call 336-8806.

Habitat for Humanity of Pulaski County, Missouri.
P.O. Box 527 - Waynesville, MO 65583 - (573) 774-5963 - Email address: habitat@webound.com
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