by Stacy Dunn
The province of PEI is partnering with the Canadian Mental Health Association of PEI and Habitat for Humanity PEI on two projects to build affordable housing units.
Habitat for Humanity PEI will receive just over $1 million to build four family homes. The detached three-bedroom rental units will be for Island families in the Summerside area.
“We much appreciate the support from government officials now and in the past to help us in our vision,” says Jamie MacKay, CEO of Habitat for Humanity PEI. “This project will help to provide affordable and appropriate housing to deserving Island families.”
The housing will be energy efficient and meet accessibility requirements. “We hope to have the builds begin within the next 12 months, depending on COVID-19 protocols.
“In 2020, we were able to complete one build. It was difficult to do it with limited volunteers, but we hope to bring in volunteers soon. They are critical and essential for a non-profit organization such as ours.”
During the pandemic, the Habitat for Humanity PEI Restore moved from Mount Edward Road to the old Sears location in Charlottetown. “We have a Store Manager, Assistant Manager, Floor Manager, Truck Drivers and volunteers who accept and inspect items. The new, larger location has been open since January 2021 and allows us to sell more product – even wholesale items.”
Twelve staff work at the organization. One job title is a Family Services Worker who provides support to the families chosen for the homes. Later this year, there may be a volunteer opportunity in office administration.
For more information on Habitat for Humanity PEI, call 902-367-3559.
For more information on applying for housing and volunteering, check Habitat for Humanity’s social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and visit www.habitatpei.ca
For volunteer inquiries, email [email protected]