Habitat for Humanity's SEMO Chapter and Cape Area Habitat for Humanity are working closely together to help build people's futures one house at a time. The two organizations have teamed up again, hoping to complete their 325 S. Ellis house by the end of June.
After struggling with city zoning issues, Cape Area Habitat for Humanity started on their 325 S. Ellis house on Feb. 18, 2011, and shortly after in March, Habitat for Humanity SEMO Chapter joined them.
An estimated total of 100 community and student volunteers have been working hard to finish the 325 S. Ellis home, working every Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Among those volunteers is future homeowner, Charlene ‘Brandy' Dalton.
Dalton heard about Cape Area Habitat for Humanity through friends, decided it might be something for her and her family, and applied. Cape Area Habitat for Humanity graded Dalton's application based on three main objectives; the family's need for housing, whether she can afford to make a 20 year interest-free mortgage payment and her willingness to agree to "sweat equity" volunteer hours. Out of an average 100 to 150 yearly applicants, Dalton was selected. On average only 10 applicants are selected each year. The first word she said after receiving the news was "Hallelujah."
Dalton and her two granddaughters are ecstatic not only for their new house, but the chance to continue their work with Cape Area Habitat for Humanity.
"I can't wait to start making other people's dreams come true like mine were," said Dalton.
Overwhelmed with the volunteers and students of Habitat for Humanity, Dalton couldn't stop smiling with happiness, claiming the people at Habitat for Humanity are great. Dalton, now known as "Mama Brandy," can't wait to invite her new volunteer friends over for BBQs, stating, "if there isn't enough room for people to stay inside, we will make room for them outside."
"Most of the applicants don't start the process as thankful as Brandy did, but by the time the project is completed it is a real emotional dedication for everyone involved," said Cape Area Habitat for Humanity Office Manager, Becky Fluchel.
Volunteers are working hard to finish the Dalton family's house, hoping stormy weather and hail are no longer an issue. However, regardless of what the weather might bring, Dalton's inspirational, optimistic outlook on life is a ray of refreshing sunshine.
"This is a dream come true. Sleeping in this house, will be like sleeping daily under God's wings," said Dalton.
Build days are every Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and now every Monday and Wednesday 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. until school is out.
**published in The Arrow
