John Welaj, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Eagle and Lake Counties (HFHELC) announced some exciting news at the annual Carpenter’s Ball fund raising event. The local non-profit announced the acquisition and general plans for the organization’s next project. HFHELC has acquired two parcels of land located in the Gypsum neighborhood known as Stratton Flats.
“This new chapter in the HFHELC story is exciting on many levels,” said Welaj. “It represents our next step in providing opportunities for families to build and purchase homes in this area. We are excited about our partnership with Pauls Corporation (the developers of Stratton Flats) and we look forward to working with the Town of Gypsum-who we’ve shared a good relationship with in the past.”
The Stratton Flats parcels, while still being laid out by HFHELC planners, will provide 18-20 new homes and is part of HFHELC’s $6 million capacity building campaign, aimed to secure the funding for 10 years’ inventory of land and the construction costs for 75 homes locally and 75 homes internationally through the global tithe program.
“The timing of Stratton Flats is perfect as we enter this campaign and as we complete our current project, Fox Hollow, by the end of March or the beginning of April” added Welaj. “This project will secure three years of building for our 10 year plan. Transition from Fox Hollow to Stratton Flats should be seamless.”
The Stratton Flats homes will be single level duplex houses. The infrastructure is in place and HFHELC anticipates the building will commence this spring.
In addition to providing an increased number of opportunities for families in need of safe, affordable homes in the valley, the increased building of homes provides HFHELC a higher level of self-sufficiency. Habitat holds the mortgages on existing homes thus creating predictable cash flow and sustainability for the organization. The non-profit can also leverage the financial donations through the support of volunteer services, donated materials and grants.
“We are extremely lucky to have the support of such amazing volunteers, donors, board members and ambassadors. Their efforts are what make our successes possible and continue to keep us building and partnering with local families,” said Welaj.