Habitat for Humanity home under construction outside Wesley Hall — © UWinnipeg
The University of Winnipeg is hosting a two-week Habitat Blitz Build on the campus front lawn located at 515 Portage Avenue. Sponsored by Investors Group, Canadian Institute for Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) and Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), this unique partnership creates an opportunity for an Indigenous family to purchase their first home through Habitat’s Indigenous Housing program.
“Habitat taps into the many talents in our community and adds strength and resilience to our inner city neighbourhoods,” said Dr. Annette Trimbee, President and Vice-Chancellor, UWinnipeg. ”The University of Winnipeg is honoured to host this Habitat build and provide volunteer support, which will result in a new home for an Indigenous family.”
Kyle, Sasha and their daughter Hailey, aged 8, are currently living with Kyle’s family. Kyle is from Norway House Cree Nation and Sasha is from Sagkeeng First Nation. The family plans to put every penny they have towards paying their mortgage. Kyle left school around the age of 16 and is currently working for Blue Maxx Basement Systems as an installer. Sasha is attending an Adult Education program and has one year left to earn her high school diploma.
“We are delighted to be partnering in such a high profile manner with The University of Winnipeg and long-time supporters Investors, CIPH and SFI. This kind of multi-tiered partnership is indicative of the broad-based approach needed to improve the quality of life for families and our community at large,” said Sandy Hopkins, CEO of Habitat for Humanity, Manitoba.
Each Habitat home requires approximately $175,000 to construct, which does not include the cost of the land. The money is raised in a variety of ways with significant support from the corporate community. This home is one of ten that will be constructed in Winnipeg in 2016.
Habitat for Humanity Manitoba is the local affiliate of a global non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating poverty housing and to making decent housing a matter of conscience. Since 1987, HFHM has partnered with local businesses, faith groups, and thousands of dedicated volunteers to build homes for over 340 Manitoba families with over 1,000 children having a better future.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Michelle Pereira, VP, Marketing, Communications & Philanthropy
Habitat for Humanity Manitoba
T. 204-235-2402
C. 204-232-5098
E. mpereira@habitat.mb.ca
