ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Friday, September 13, 1996 TAG: 9609130107
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A-12 EDITION: METRO
LEAKY ROOFS. Flooded basements. Many homeowners in these parts suffered such indignities when the remnants of Hurricane Fran blew through Virginia. Even so, there's no place like home when folks need shelter from life's storms - and not just those whipped up by Mother Nature.
That's why it is worth celebrating with Habitat for Humanity its 20th anniversary this month. Thanks to the nonprofit group dedicated to providing decent homes for low-income households, a lot of families in the Roanoke and New River valleys and elsewhere in our region are enjoying the comforts of home.
Most people know how Habitat works: To build modest homes at below-market costs, it relies on donated funds and materials, and on labor donated by volunteers from churches, corporations, colleges, civic clubs. Anyone who can wield a hammer, saw or screwdriver can help, including past and sitting presidents.
Former President Jimmy Carter and his wife have long been associated with Habitat's mission, not just as fund raisers but as house builders. President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore recently rolled up their sleeves and put in hours at a job site. Republican vice-presidential candidate Jack Kemp is a regular Habitat volunteer.
Habitat houses are sold, at no profit and through no-interest loans, to low-income working families that otherwise would likely never be able to afford to own a home of their own.
In 20 years, Habitat's more than 1,200 affiliates in the United States, and 200 others around the world, have built nearly 50,000 houses, providing sturdy, comfortable shelter for more than 250,000 people. It is one of the most effective community-development organizations in the country.
Over two decades, and in communities around the world, it has made a difference in people's lives.
LENGTH: Short : 40 linesby CNB