Habitat's 50th

Building affordable homes for low-income people has been the mission of Habitat for Humanity International since 1976. The Cape Area Habitat for Humanity has continued that effort over the past 27 years, and the local affiliate is working on its 50th house in the area.

A Southeast Missourian story that ran last month spotlighted the organization and Habitat's efforts to build this milestone home in 50 days. Since then, progress on the house has continued. The organization is on Day 30, and organizers say they are still on-target to finish by their target date.

Fifty houses in this area is impressive. This represents countless hours of work by organizers and volunteers, along with many donated supplies to help keep the construction budget on-target. Justin Kertz, executive director of the Cape Area Habitat for Humanity, said the organization will continue building homes in the future. He would like to see another 50 homes.

For the recipients -- who also help with the construction process -- having a place to call their own is a major blessing.

It's good this organization has a presence in Southeast Missouri, and we congratulate them on this milestone. Thank you to each person who has rallied behind the effort.