Habitat starts two more homes

Groundbreaking ceremonies for homes 20 and 21 were kicked off recently at 1115 Cousin St. and 633 S. Henderson Ave., both in Cape Girardeau. Homeowner partners of these residences, Crystle Sandridge and Temika Cleaves, respectively, will work at least 350 hours toward their goal of ownership. They will also repay their no-profit, interest-free mortgage over 20 years.

The generosity of area individuals and businesses results in homes that cost about half of what they would cost if built conventionally. This eases the monthly mortgage budget for the partner family, allowing for other family needs.

Led by a vision of eliminating substandard housing in the Cape Girardeau area, the Cape area Habitat for Humanity finished its first home in 1990. Nineteen homes later, roughly 70 people have been permanently housed through the dedicated volunteer work of Habitat for Humanity.

Habitat for Humanity, a worldwide grassroots movement, is centered on offering a hand up, not a handout. They seek to make simple, decent shelter a matter of conscience and action.

More information is available by calling 334-9728.