Affordable housing is in short supply in Western North Carolina. In Haywood County alone more than 29% of residents are cost burdened, meaning they are paying more than 30% of their household income for housing.
Haywood Habitat for Humanity is pleased to announce that thanks to support from Dogwood Health Trust, two more low-income Haywood County families will have the opportunity to access the organization’s affordable housing program. Dogwood Health Trust is providing the capital to build two of the first five energy-efficient, affordable homes for low-income families in Habitat’s 10-home neighborhood, Chestnut Park, located in Waynesville. “In Fall 2020, in the face of the pandemic, Haywood Habitat for Humanity began construction of the organization’s largest neighborhood to date. It was a bold, but critical action for us to take at such an uncertain time. We are grateful for Dogwood’s commitment to help address the disadvantages created by the lack of affordable housing in our area, and for their investment in the work we do to address the problem.” said Jamye Sheppard, executive director.
About Haywood Habitat for Humanity
Haywood Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization operated on Christian principles that seeks to put God’s love into action by building homes, communities, and hope. The organization works to make affordable homeownership possible for low income Haywood County residents that are willing to partner in the building of their homes and have the ability to pay an affordable mortgage payment. Since its founding in 1990, Haywood Habitat has worked to improve housing for more than 300 Haywood County residents. The organization is committed to eliminating substandard housing in the community through constructing, rehabilitating and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions. The work is accomplished through the generosity of volunteers, donors, and sales at the Waynesville ReStore.
About Habitat for Humanity International
Since its founding in 1976, Habitat for Humanity International has helped more than 29 million people in more than 70 countries achieve strength, stability and independence through safe, decent and affordable shelter. As a nonprofit Christian ministry, Habitat welcomes people of all races, religions and nationalities to partner in its mission.
About Dogwood Health Trust
Dogwood Health Trust is a private foundation based in Asheville, North Carolina with the sole purpose of dramatically improving the health and well-being of all people and communities of 18 counties and the Qualla Boundary in Western North Carolina. Dogwood Health Trust focuses on innovative and equitable ways to address the many factors that contribute to overall health and wellness. With a focus on housing, education, economic opportunity and access to care and health resources, Dogwood Health Trust works to create a Western North Carolina where every generation can live, learn, earn and thrive, with dignity and opportunity for all, no exceptions. To learn more, please visit www.dht.org.
