Homebuilding efforts to begin in summer 2013 at plats destroyed by fires

An idea to build simple, decent and affordable homes for low-income families is rising from the ashes of the 2011 Labor Day fires. Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County plans to build three homes in Leander, with construction starting as soon as July 2013.

The nonprofit purchased three lots on Moon Glow Drive during the summer through a Williamson County–funded Community Development Block Grant, Executive Director Debbie Hoffman said. Each lot was purchased for less than $25,000, allowing Habitat to expand to Leander for the first time.

"I was able to visit with two of the three families that sold to us. They know who has purchased them and what our intentions are, and both of those families were excited that we would be bringing in families in need of housing," Hoffman said. "That's heartwarming because they know what we are about and believe in that. So we are now working on raising funds to have the materials purchased, and we'll start our selection process for our families in January."

Families and individuals who apply to live in a Habitat for Humanity home must contribute up to 500 volunteer service hours and earn between 30 percent and 50 percent of the county's median income, among other requirements. Hoffman said there is a demand for affordable housing throughout Williamson County, and the expansion to Leander will reach an untapped need.

"We know that there are those families in Leander in need, and we do get calls from families who are looking for homeownership opportunities and better housing," she said.

The nonprofit hopes to raise about $70,000 for construction materials before June and soon after start building the first home in Leander. The other two houses will be built as fundraising continues, Hoffman said.

The lots at 1006, 1008 and 1013 Moon Glow Drive in Leander will each host a Habitat for Humanity home. Construction fundraising is ongoing.

Initial criteria to be selected as a partner family

• Need for adequate housing
• Able to make monthly mortgage payments
• Willing to complete up to 500 volunteer hours with Habitat for Humanity after selection
• Live or work in Williamson County for at least the past year
• Not listed in the National Sex Offender Registry
• Meet income limits based on family size