Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex has made way for progress in Leamington.
An abandoned home at 64 Askew St. has been torn down to be replaced by a brand-new single-detached home for a lucky family in need.
Executive Director Fiona Coughlin tells AM800 News the idea of flipping the home was floated around, but it was deemed safer to start from scratch. She says it was an eyesore for an otherwise vibrant neighbourhood — they look forward to building something to be proud of.
"It's just wonderful to be able to reclaim the property and build a strong stable home on that lot," says Coughlin. "That build will be happening next Spring."
Now Habitat will begin the search for volunteers and of course, a family in need of an affordable home.
Fundraising is also underway, she says the organization takes a lot of pride in how well resources are directed on projects.
"Whenever you donate or sponsor to a build, 100% of your gift goes to building houses, which is something we're very proud of," says Coughlin. "You can also support by shopping at our re-stores as well, and that helps us to build houses as well."
Coughlin says Habitat for Humanity will also be getting a second build underway in Windsor in 2018.