Wednesday, December 13, 2000
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Wednesday, December 13, 2000 |
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Habitat looking for Fayette land Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity is seeking land donations as it continues its mission to build decent affordable housing in Henry, Clayton, and Fayette counties. Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry seeking to eliminate poverty housing in the tri-county area. Habitat for Humanity is not a charity or a give-away program. These Habitat homes are affordable to low-income families because there is no profit included in the sale of the houses and no interest is charged on the 20-year mortgage. Volunteer labor is used to build houses to keep building costs low for Habitat families. Partner families pay a down payment and a monthly mortgage payment. They also invest at least 150 hours of sweat equity as they build their own house and the houses of others. A typical Habitat house in the Southern Crescent area has 1,325 square feet of finished living area and costs an average of $46,000. Most houses have 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Funds come from churches, religious congregations, businesses, corporations, organizations, and individuals in the Southern Crescent area. Habitat also accepts government funds for the acquisition of land, streets, utilities and administrative expenses. Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity has recently completed its first subdivision in Clayton County, for a total of 19 homes. In the year 2000, 9 homes were built, showing a 50 percent increase in building over the year 1999. Southern Crescent's goals for 2001 are to start a new subdivision by building the required infrastructure; to build at least 10 houses; to continue building in Henry County; and to begin building in Fayette County. However, land acquisition is key to this goal. If you have a lien-free, buildable lot in Fayette County that you would like to donate to a good cause, consider giving it to Southern Crescent Habitat. In addition to supporting Habitat for Humanity, a charitable gift of real estate can be tax-advantageous. If given to Southern Crescent Habitat outright, you may realize a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the real estate. Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity accepts applications from local families one time per year. The next application workshop is scheduled for March 3, 2001, from 9:00am until 12:00. It will be held at the First Baptist Church of Morrow. Any questions regarding the workshop or making a donation to Southern Crescent Habitat can be directed to the Southern Crescent Habitat office at 770-477-2367. |