SOUTHWEST REGION
FCLF LOAN $1 million
LINE OF CREDIT for renovation or new construction
59 single family affordable homes 

Is there a parent anywhere who doesn't want a safe, clean and affordable home for their children? What mother or father would not be excited to watch their children play in a yard of their own, to see them excel in school, or to have their entire family together in a home of their own for a Sunday dinner? These moments of success are the work and mission of Habitat for Humanity Sarasota.

Habitat for Humanity Sarasota Inc. was founded in 1985. The founders believed that decent housing was the most important need in this community. Habitat's Mission is "to partner with God and community to provide decent affordable housing for people in need so that they may build better lives for their families." By doing more than just building homes for families in need, the organization positively affects lives by revitalizing the Sarasota community and building hope where for many, hope was lost.

Habitat for Humanity Sarasota continues to grow by increasing the number of homes built and the number of families served. With the support of many churches, community organizations, corporations, individuals, foundations and thousands of volunteers, Habitat Sarasota has built 191 homes in Sarasota County. Habitat also manages two very successful ReStore locations which sell donated furniture and construction materials.

With a revolving line of credit from FCLF, Habitat Sarasota was able to renovate or build up to 59 new, affordable homes for ownership to low-income households, as well as pay off an existing loan. Additional funds were provided by the state of Florida's Mortgage Settlement Funds (MSF) and private contributions. This project not only helps families become homeowners, but it also helps families learn economic self-sufficiency by saving for the down payment and providing 500 hours of "sweat equity" into their new home.

To view more photos, vicit FCLF's Flickr page for Habitat for Humanity Sarasota.

For more information, www.habitatsrq.org.