San Antonio’s Habitat for Humanity has reached a major milestone, building its 1,500th house and celebrating 50 years of serving families in the area. The nonprofit has been providing affordable housing opportunities for low-income families since 1976, when it was founded by Faith Lytle, a local minister’s wife.

A Local Success Story

Monica Ovalle, a single mother of two, recently became a homeowner through Habitat for Humanity’s program. She spent months working with volunteers and staff to build her new home, which was dedicated in a ceremony on June 12. Ovalle is the first in her family to own a home and is grateful for the opportunity to provide a stable environment for her children.

Habitat for Humanity’s program requires new homeowners to put in 300 hours of “sweat equity” and attend classes on financial management and home maintenance. The nonprofit also provides zero-interest loans to help families purchase their homes. According to CEO and President Michael Taylor, the process has evolved over the years, and the organization now produces 50 to 60 homes annually.

A Community Effort

Habitat for Humanity’s success is due in part to the support of local officials, businesses, and community members. The City of San Antonio has partnered with the nonprofit to build neighborhoods and create affordable housing opportunities. Veronica Garcia, director of the city’s neighborhood and housing services, praised Habitat for Humanity as a “critical partner” in the city’s efforts to expand affordable homeownership.

The nonprofit has also received support from local volunteers, who have donated their time and skills to help build homes. Al Poerner, a 25-year volunteer, said he has seen the impact of Habitat for Humanity on families and is committed to continuing his work with the organization.

Original reporting: San Antonio Report — read the source article.