Habitat makes dreams come true for area families

By Rachael Gleason
Item Correspondent

November 14, 2008 09:20 pm

— The Walker County Habitat for Humanity is putting the American Dream into reach for two Huntsville residents this weekend.
Dedication ceremonies for Diane Carter and Elsie Johnson at noon and 2 p.m. today will mark the occasion.
Habitat for Humanity has been operational in Walker County for almost 20 years according to president William Powell.
The houses for Carter and Johnson and their families will be the 13th and 14th houses the organization has given to Huntsville families.
“We want to break the cycle of inadequate housing,” he said.
Powell said recipients are chosen by the Habitat’s family selection committee, which is made up of people in all areas of town.
“The committee chooses the one in greatest need,” he said.
One of the requirements of receiving a home is the recipient has to be gainfully employed, Powell said.
Even with a sluggish economy, he said the organization has yet to see a homeowner lose his or her job and not be able to pay the mortgage.
In fact, one of the first beneficiaries of Habitat for Humanity, Mattie Johnson, paid off her non-interest loan on her house approximately one year ago.
Powell said the organization has an annual concert in late January to raise funds for building houses. He said the biggest source of income, however, comes from monetary and material donations.
“So far, we were fortunate enough to be able to build our own [houses],” he said.
Sometimes, like in Carter’s case, houses are purchased already complete, however.
The dedication ceremonies will take place at noon for Diane Carter at 306 Sowell Lane and 2 p.m. for Elsie Johnson at 633 Avenue H. Both dedications are open to the public.
Contact William Powell for more information.