Habitat makes affordable housing dreams come true

Inspiration for community change begins with hope, leadership, and a shared belief that working together can make life better for our neighbors.

Habitat for Humanity Towns/Union Counties is committed to addressing one of our community’s greatest challenges – access to safe and affordable housing in our beautiful mountain region.

Since COVID, home prices have risen sharply, fueled by an influx of people moving from cities. This surge has made housing increasingly out of reach for our local workforce.

Today, the median home price in Union County is $360,167, while the median household income is just $65,697. At a 6% interest rate, with no more than 30% of income allocated to housing, the average family could only afford a home valued at around $200,000 – far below current market prices.

This is the stark reality we are facing with affordable housing here.

Without awareness and action, this crisis will only grow. As a community, we can make a collective, positive change.

One powerful way we are driving this change is through Panther Home Builds, and the third Panther Home was delivered through town to its future homeowners’ property off Gumlog Road on Thursday, Aug. 21.

The Panther Homes are constructed off-site at Union County Schools, where students in the Construction Pathway of the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program take part in framing the houses. Through this hands-on experience, they gain valuable trade skills while also learning the importance of service and community impact – preparing them for careers in the workforce after graduation.

Each fall, students begin framing a new Panther Home, and at the start of the following year the house is moved to a permanent lot. Habitat for Humanity Towns/Union Counties oversees the move, prepares the site, and works with local subcontractors and volunteers to complete construction – transforming the project into a finished, affordable home for a local family.

Families are then selected through Habitat’s process, based on need, willingness to partner, and ability to pay an affordable mortgage. These homes are priced below market value so that families earning at or under the area’s median income can achieve the dream of homeownership.

The students’ work not only builds houses but also builds character, teaching the next generation the value of service, community, and creating positive change.

Habitat for Humanity Towns/Union Counties is proud to build one affordable home at a time – but lasting change requires all of us. Helping others has the power to transform the trajectory of others’ lives, as seen with the families who received Panther Homes 1 and 2. When we lift each other up, our whole community becomes stronger, safer, and more united.

Every contribution matters. Whether it’s a $5 donation, lending your skills on the build site, or simply sharing Habitat’s mission, you are helping build a future where every family has a safe and decent place to call home.

When we build together, we don’t just create homes – we create hope, dignity, and belonging.

For more information, visit us at Townsunionhabitat.org.