Habitat for Humanity plans groundbreaking in Wellesley

Spring start part of Carter family project for 150 Canadian homes in 2017

WELLESLEY — Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region will break ground this spring on its first build in Wellesley Township, with two homes being built in the town of Wellesley.

The non-profit organization, which helps hard-working, low-income families move into their own homes, said it has been overwhelmed by the support and warm reception of the community.

“We’ve found Wellesley is a very generous community. They think with their heart,” said Jerry Lawlor, Habitat’s director of development.

Already, $115,000 is committed to the project from local businesses, individuals, churches and service clubs, and volunteers are signed up to help with the build.

Habitat started doing a “mini campaign” in Wellesley last fall, Lawlor said, “talking to people, looking for volunteers, looking for donors.”

More than $300,000 will be needed to finance the project, and 15 people a day volunteering on the construction site.

The plan is to break ground this spring and wrap up the build this year. The Wellesley build is in tandem with the 34th Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project to help build 150 homes for Canada’s 150th anniversary.

Families contribute “sweat equity” volunteer hours toward the construction of their home and other Habitat builds, and pay a no-interest mortgage capped at 25 per cent of their gross household income.

“We are thrilled to welcome HabitatWR to our community, and are fully invested in the success of building two units for local families in our area,” Wellesley Mayor Joe Nowak said in a release.

To donate or volunteer, go to habitatwr.ca.