Habitat for Humanity SHR Celebrates National Homeownership Month

Norfolk, VA (PRWEB) June 06, 2014

In observance of National Homeownership Month, Congressman Robert “Bobby” Scott (VA-03) and his congressional staff will partner with Habitat for Humanity of South Hampton Roads (Habitat SHR) on Saturday, June 7, 2014. Congressman Scott and his congressional staff members will assist with a home renovation project at 721 Bold Street in Portsmouth, VA – as part of Habitat SHR’s recent shift to rehab projects. The team build is scheduled from 8 am – 3 pm.

Throughout the month of June and beyond, Habitat SHR will engage donors and volunteers in series of events to include team builds and fundraising initiatives – many of which will support the organization’s Rebuilding the American Dream (RAD) initiative. Launched in March, RAD is an initiative aimed at renovating 24 vacant homes and foreclosed properties and selling them to families in South Hampton Roads at an affordable price. Habitat SHR will leverage this commemorative month to highlight its housing programs available through the Rebuilding the American Dream initiative, and help hardworking, low-income families attain affordable homeownership.

“We have much to celebrate this year, in terms of our aggressive efforts to eradicate housing poverty in South Hampton Roads,” said Wayne Lavender, Executive Director of Habitat SHR. “Through our housing programs, we are strengthening communities, preserving the environment, and ensuring that all families have access to a piece of the American Dream.”

National Homeownership Month was established in June 1997 as a challenge to promote financial literacy and increase the number of homeowners throughout the United States. According to Habitat for Humanity International, children of homeowners exhibit fewer behavior problems and score higher on standardized math and reading tests. As important, homeowners are more likely to participate in civic activities and contribute to the community.

“Homeownership addresses a myriad of disparities related to education, health and wellness, and employment,” said Congressman Scott. “I am committed to supporting organizations that provide opportunities for all families to own a piece of the American Dream and realize the vast economic and social benefits of homeownership.”

To encourage families to apply for homeownership programs, Habitat SHR recently developed a new Pre-Qualification Survey to streamline and simplify the eligibility process. Applicants are only required to respond to a short list of questions regarding family size, income, and current living situation. After meeting the minimum requirements, applicants will be invited to complete the full application for homeownership.

For more information about Habitat SHR’s homeownership programs or to volunteer/donate, please visit http://www.shrhabitat.org.

About Habitat for Humanity of South Hampton Roads:

Habitat for Humanity of South Hampton Roads engages the community in building opportunities for qualified families to achieve independence and stability through purchasing an affordable home. We serve all seven geographical entities that comprise South Hampton Roads: Chesapeake, Isle of Wight, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Smithfield, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach.

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