'It's our duty.' Manatee County nonprofit seeks veterans to fill affordable housing
Bradenton HeraldMar 25, 2024
Mar. 25—PALMETTO — Our
For an estimated payment of between
Monday, volunteers were working on the
Habitat repurchased the two homes from the previous owners, who decided to relocate to another area.
Krick paused from cutting flooring to say that he felt blessed to be among those working to get a home ready for a new veteran owner.
"I'm just trying to keep up with these guys," Krick said of the other volunteers.
Renovated homes for local veterans
Until its partnership with Manatee County Habitat, Our
But with those programs, ONM was never able to assist younger veterans, Kisela said.
Since its inception about six years ago, originally with
"This is not a handout but a hand up," Quinn said. "This is an option for the veteran community, whether it's this house or another. We'll sell 16 homes this year."
Nonprofit seeks veteran applicants
The two organizations have worked together to get the Habitat homes in shape for new veteran owners, but they have struggled to find qualifying veterans.
Applicants must earn between 50% and 80% of the area median income, have at least two years of continuous employment and have been a resident of
And there is a deadline to apply fast approaching:
Next year, Habitat expects to start work on a 30-home subdivision in
"We're increasing our capacity to meet the need in the community," Quinn said.
When Habitat opened its application period for the latest batch of planned houses, it received 100 applications in one week. Such is the demand when first-time homeowners might expect to pay much more than
In February, the median price for an existing single-family house in the
ONM's partnership with Habitat offers veterans a tremendous opportunity, Kisela said.
Dr.
"I've been doing painting, siding and a lot of broom work — cleanup. I'm a PhD gopher," Sexton said.
"Veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and it's our duty to ensure they have access to safe and affordable housing," Kisela said. "These homes represent a step towards a brighter future for our veterans, and we are committed to supporting them every step of the way."
Apply for an affordable home
For veterans interested in applying, visit MHApply.org to learn more about requirements. To apply, email apply@manateehabitat.org before the
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