Residents of The Woodlands area know how to give back to their community, said leaders of Montgomery County Habitat for Humanity.
Executive Director Barbara Smith said financial support and volunteer efforts fromcompanies and individuals in The Woodlands have made homeownership a reality for a growing number of low-income families.
The group helps low-income families who live in substandard conditions become homeowners through a comprehensive qualification and inclusive homebuilding process, Smith said.
"I've seen the homes that some of our homeowners came from," she said. "I've seen situations where you have to fill up a water jug regularly to flush the toilet."
As part of the mandates for families who qualify for a Habitat home, family members are also are responsible for helping to build the home.
"It's not a giveaway," Smith said. "They have to help build those houses and pay for it."
Jennifer Roth, manager of volunteers and communication, said although no homes have been built in The Woodlands by the Montgomery County branch, the organization relies heavily on support from area residents and companies.
"Most of the companies that build with us are in The Woodlands," she said.
Looking to maximize its resources, the organization seeks out reasonably affordable land to build on.
"That's generally why most of the building is done outside of The Woodlands," Roth said. "Land is at a premium in The Woodlands."
Roth said the organization is focused on building out the Cedar Creek neighborhood, which is situated on 37 acres in Conroe. A total of 37 homes have already been completed in the community, she said.
Montgomery County Habitat for Humanity will soon reach a milestone: the building of its 100th home. It has built 95 homes since the chapter launched in 1990.
The organization also raises funds through Habitat ReStore, its home improvement resale shop. The shop resells donated items and building materials, such as cabinets, bricks, light fixtures, furniture and working appliances, Smith said.
"The funds from those items go directly into the cost of building our homes," she said.
Beyond funding, there is also a lot of labor that goes into making the program successful.
Many close by are willing to pitch in and help, Smith said.
"Many of our volunteers come from The Woodlands," she said.
Roadmap to homeownership
- Attend one-hour applicant information meeting at Montgomery County Library–Central Branch at 104 I-45 N., Conroe
- Submit application with federal W2 form to prove low-income status
- Undergo credit check
- Undergo criminal background check
- Families who meet all other requirements will be considered if their annual total income is between 30–60 percent of the median income for Montgomery County.
1501 S. Seventh St., Conroe, 936-441-4663, www.hfhmctx.org
