Fred Burson, a broker with Woodyard & Associates recently came into the Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties’ office and handed Kitty Green, CEO and President of Habitat a check for $7,500.  Burson shared his philanthropic thoughts with Green. 

He said, “We know that the real estate business is struggling right now, but there are a lot of people in our community, a lot worse off than we are.   Woodyard & Associates feels committed to helping those folks, and we invite other real estate companies and individuals to give a helping hand up to those in need in our community.  Even if you are not in a position to donate cash, your time and energy as a volunteer would be very helpful to Habitat for Humanity.” 

Green commented, “Habitat is very appreciative of this gracious gift from Woodyard & Associates.  Every gift we receive furthers the mission of Habitat.”

Habitat sells its homes to qualifying, low-income families that have completed its program requirements, with zero-interest mortgage payments that don’t exceed 30% of the buyer’s income.  In the last nine months, the organization has handed over the keys to 50 families, and 38 more families are currently approved for homeownership and are completing the Habitat homeownership program.

Habitat’s homeownership requirements include 250 sweat equity hours, payment of $1,200 toward closing costs and mandatory attendance at homeowner training classes. Through the use of volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, homes are sold to the home owners at no profit with an interest-free mortgage making homeownership a reality.

Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties is one of the largest affiliates in the country, and it has provided more than 1,164 families in Lee and Hendry counties the opportunity to own their own home.  For further information please visit Habitat at www.habitat4humanity.org or call (239) 652-0434.