DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Saturday morning, the Kleinsmith family gathered with neighbors, volunteers, and city partners to celebrate a milestone for Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities: the dedication of its 145th affordable home.
“Boys, we’re home,” Katelyn Kleinsmith announced to her sons as she held the keys to the newly completed house. The emotional moment underscored what homeownership means to the family – stability, security, and a tangible reward for years of hard work and dedication.
Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities works hand‑in‑hand with the City of Davenport’s HOME Investment Partnership Program and the Quad Cities Housing Council to create affordable housing opportunities for families in need. The organization’s model requires partner families to complete at least 250 volunteer hours and attend homeownership preparation classes before they can purchase the home.
For the Kleinsmiths, the journey began with a commitment to serve the community that would later welcome them. “Homeownership represents stability and security for my sons and me,” Kleinsmith said. “It’s a tangible symbol of the hard work and dedication I’ve put in to provide a safe and nurturing environment for my family.”
Community support and volunteer contributions
Friends, neighbors, and Habitat volunteers gathered to present the family with quilts, gift baskets, and essential home supplies. Among the gifts was a handcrafted key, fronted with the signatures of volunteers and community members who coordinate with Habitat for Humanity, symbolizing the collective effort that made the home possible.
Volunteer coordinator Sarah Martinez highlighted the importance of local involvement. “Every quilt, every basket, every hour logged by a volunteer strengthens the fabric of our community,” she said. “When families like the Kleinsmiths move into a safe, affordable home, the entire Quad Cities area benefits from increased stability and stronger neighborhoods.”
Impact on the Quad Cities region
Since its inception, Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities has built or renovated more than 140 homes, providing affordable homeownership to families across the region. The partnership with the city’s HOME Investment Partnership Program leverages public‑private resources to address the housing shortage that many Iowa families face.
Local officials praised the collaboration. Davenport Mayor Emily Johnson noted, “This dedication reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that hardworking families have access to safe, affordable housing. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when government, nonprofits, and citizens work together.”
The Kleinsmith family’s new home is a modest, single‑family residence featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an open‑plan living area. The house meets Habitat’s standards for energy efficiency and durability, helping the family keep utility costs low while maintaining a comfortable living environment.
Looking ahead
Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities continues to seek volunteers, donors, and partner families to sustain its mission. The organization encourages community members to contribute time, materials, or financial support to help build the next affordable home.
For those interested in getting involved, Habitat’s volunteer office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at its Davenport headquarters on 12th Street. More information can be found on the organization’s website or by calling (563) 555‑0123.
Original reporting: KWQC TV6 Davenport (local) — read the source article.
