By Kirk Bradford | [email protected]

You may have heard the name, but not what they do. Salt Lake Valley’s Habitat for Humanity began in 1986 and is quickly approaching 100 homes built in the Salt Lake Valley. In the Taylorsville area, over 350 people have enjoyed owning a Habitat home. These families are “paying it forward” each time they make a 0% interest mortgage payment. The money is placed in an account used to finance building future homes for Habitat families. In 2012, Salt Lake Valley Habitat established the Neighborhood Revitalization Program which seeks to eliminate sub-standard housing along the Wasatch Front. Over 90 critical repairs to existing homes have been completed — many of these homes were threatening the health and welfare of children and seniors.

During September’s Millcreek city council meeting, District 3’s Representative Cheri Jackson brought up Habitat for Humanity. She said they are seeking referrals for eligible women, men and seniors that may benefit from their group projects. Jackson spoke with Ed Blake, Habitat for Humanity’s executive director. They talked about what had been done so far in Taylorsville and the desire to do more in Millcreek’s community. 

“What’s really neat about the suggestions they’re seeking is outside of entire homes, they are also looking for situations that would warrant some rehab work. Women, men or elderly that are good citizens, they just aren’t in a situation to repair that roof, or fix that bathroom.” If they are referred to Habitat for Humanity, it may become possible for groups to come together and do it. “Keep in mind,” Jackson said, “these suggested referrals can also include people in a rental property; perhaps they have a landlord unwilling to help with work that is needed.” 

Habitat for Humanity funds these projects in a variety of ways. Sometimes they’ll accept partial payment, with added help from other religions or groups. These partial payments provide a way for someone to get the work done they might otherwise not receive. If you have anyone in mind, Habitat for Humanity is looking for referrals. This allows them to avoid situations where people may try to take advantage of this valuable service. Referrals can come from a friend, family or even a church leader. 

If you would like to learn more about how you could donate time, money or resources, Habitat for Humanity is always looking for volunteers. Please contact Salt Lake Valley Habitat for Humanity at 1276 S. 500 West, (801) 2630136 or [email protected].