Habitat for Humanity celebrating 25 years in Natchez

Published 12:00 am Monday, February 15, 2016

Charlie Thomas tosses up an air hose to Curtis Moroney while the two Habitat for Humanity volunteers help build the organization’s 20th house in Natchez on Saturday. (Nicole Hester/The Natchez Democrat)

Charlie Thomas tosses up an air hose to Curtis Moroney while the two Habitat for Humanity volunteers help build the organization’s 20th house in Natchez on Saturday. (Nicole Hester/The Natchez Democrat)

NATCHEZ — In the past 25 years, Habitat for Humanity has built 19 houses for families in Natchez.

The nonprofit organization is now working on its 20th house and is looking for helping hands.

To mark its 25th anniversary, the local Habitat chapter is asking supporters to donate $25.

Habitat board member Duncan McFarlane helps unload a pile of wooden beams. (Nicole Hester/The Natchez Democrat)

Habitat board member Duncan McFarlane helps unload a pile of wooden beams. (Nicole Hester/The Natchez Democrat)

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“The volunteer groups we have that come out and help build the houses are fantastic,” Habitat board member Duncan McFarlane said. “Volunteer turnout is great, but we always seem to be short on money.”

Habitat has raised approximately $6,000 since it launched its 25th-anniversary fundraising campaign a few months ago.

McFarlane said continued support for the Miss-Lou has meant Habitat for Humanity has been able to continue its work for 25 years.

Habitat’s national organization was founded in 1976 as a Christian housing ministry focused on providing affordable housing for low-income families.

Habitat’s 20th house in Natchez, located at 11 Garden St., will go to a mother with two young children.

Potential homeowners put in what is called “sweat equity” to receive the house, hundreds of hours of working to help build their house.

Although volunteer turnout has been good, McFarlane said Habitat is always looking for a few extra hands.

Reflected in the window, Habitat volunteers make their way down from the roof and out of the house they are building at 11 Garden St. (Nicole Hester/The Natchez Democrat)

Reflected in the window, Habitat volunteers make their way down from the roof and out of the house they are building at 11 Garden St. (Nicole Hester/The Natchez Democrat)

“We can always use the help,” he said.

Habitat volunteers work from approximately 8 a.m. until noon on Saturdays. Anyone wishing to volunteer can contact McFarlane at 601-807-4956.

Donations can be mailed to PO Box 100, Natchez MS 39121.