Affordable housing is one of the most pressing unmet needs in our region. A recently released report* indicated that the combination of a lack of affordable units, a critically low vacancy rate and a significant projected population growth will make housing availability in our area, especially affordable housing, a rare commodity.
Thanks to an anonymous donation through the Community Foundation of WNC, Asheville Area Habitat is pleased to announce it’s first-ever “Business Bungalow” House will soon begin in West Asheville. All donations to this house by local businesses, will be matched (up to $25,000) by this caring donor.
The donor, who wants to address the affordable housing shortage head-on, is offering this challenge match to encourage the business community to get involved and be part of the solution. “This is an opportunity to work together to build a Habitat house, address a pressing community need, and most importantly, transform the life of another local family,” said Betsy Warren, Sponsor Coordinator for Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity. “We are enormously grateful to this donor and we’re excited to partner with the business community to collectively address the lack of affordable housing in the area.”
How to get involved:
Donations of all sizes are welcome and appreciated. All donors will receive a special window cling (decal), be recognized in AAHH’s annual report (printed and online) and be included in a printed program at the dedication of the house.
Businesses that give $250 will be recognized as Housing Champions and will also receive the following benefits: the option to schedule one on-site volunteer workday, and a listing on AAHH’s website for the duration of the build (approximately six months).
*The January 2015 Regional Housing Analysis by Bowen Research Group, commissioned by the City of Asheville.
About Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity
Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity has welcomed 270 Buncombe County families to safe, decent and affordable houses since 1983. Habitat homes, which are Green Built NC certified, are sold at no-profit to partner families, who pay back a 0% interest loan. The non-profit also offers a home repair program for low-income homeowners. Learn more about Asheville Area Habitat by visiting ashevillehabitat.org.