Hancock County, Mississippi (MMD Newswire) February 18, 2009 -- On February 16th, 2009, volunteers, partner families and staff raised the walls on Habitat for Humanity's 100th house in Hancock County.

"These first 100 homes should be a sign to the people of Hancock County; we're here to stay," said Wendy McDonald, Executive Director of HFH Bay-Waveland. "Come and help us build the next 100!"

Ground zero for Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Hancock County saw seventy percent of its housing either damaged or completely destroyed. Many families have lived in trailers or other temporary housing for more than three years as they've struggled to rebuild and recover.

Habitat's work in Hancock County began in 2006, through a disaster response office initiated by Habitat's Jackson affiliate. In 2008, Habitat for Humanity Bay-Waveland Area was formed as an independent affiliate.

Since 2006 nearly 3,000 volunteers from around the country have partnered with Habitat families to build 100 simple, attractive, affordable coastal homes in the county, providing housing to approximately 275 people.

Through its office, staff, land and houses more than $14 million dollars has been invested in Hancock County through Habitat for Humanity. And yet, this investment is not in the form of handouts or giveaways. "Gulf Coast families don't need a hand-out, they need a hand-up," explains Wendy McDonald, HFH Bay-Waveland's executive director. "And that's exactly what the Habitat model provides."

"Each of our homeowners must invest hundreds of hours of ‘sweat equity,' helping to build their home and the homes of others. They also have a mortgage and must make regular monthly payments. What makes our homes affordable are the selfless efforts of thousands of volunteers and the generous donations and grants we've received from our sponsors and friends. "

Recently endorsed by the Builders' and Developers' Guild of the Gulf Coast, HFH Bay-Waveland has always built their homes to high standards. In 2009, the affiliate will take this commitment to a new level with a "greening" initiative. This initiative includes the use of more eco-friendly and energy efficient technologies and construction methods in all of its homes. Additionally, in May 2009, HFHBW will host a conference for builders and others called "Greening Affordable Housing." More details on the initiative and conference will be released soon.

A celebration and dedication of the 100th house is scheduled for 12:00noon on Friday, February 20th. The house is located on 6148 Forrest Street, in the Bayside Park community of Bay St. Louis.

For more information, please contact
Dave Walker
dwalker@habitatbw.org
(228) 467-966
or visit www.habitatbw.org

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