Clearwater, FL – On Wednesday, November 10th, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties proudly celebrated the ribbon cutting of the new Truist Foundation Homeowner Education Center. Education is the cornerstone of the Habitat Homeownership Program, and the buildout of this space will allow for greater impact throughout the community through homeownership education.
The new center located inside the Habitat Clearwater ReStore, features a large interactive classroom sponsored by Truist Foundation, a Homebuyer Selection Area sponsored by Tibbetts Lumber CO., and Breakout Rooms sponsored by Republic Bank Foundation, Marion Rich, and the Trepani Family. The transformation of the space allows for more enhancements to the ReStore, as it includes a space for available for purchase cabinets and vanities through a partnership with Lakeland Liquidation.
“Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties understands that preparing individuals and families for homeownership will increase stability and success within our communities,” said Iwan Mohamed, West Florida regional president for Truist, speaking on behalf of the Truist Foundation. “Truist is proud to present the Homeowner Education Center which will support current and future homeowners in West Florida while also helping to fulfill Truist’s purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities.”
“When Mike Sutton, Habitat for Humanity’s CEO, approached Republic Bank about sponsoring one of the new facility’s classrooms, it was easy to say yes,” said James Kirkpatrick, Republic Bank’s Florida Market President. “A culture of caring is central to our mission. Supporting affordable housing and continued learning through the new Education Center is one way we support our community. We are thrilled to help more homeowners gain confidence and understanding in their home-owning journey.”
The transformation of the Education Center will be essential to the homeowners that come through the Habitat program. Habitat Board Members and Homeowners, Tamara DeBose and Davisha Earley, shared with attendees the importance of homeowner education during Wednesday’s grand opening.
“Homeowner education is at the core of the Habitat program”, explains Mike Sutton, president and CEO of the affiliate. “The decision to move the administrative offices earlier this year was made with our homeowners in mind. The addition of a dedicated education center will enhance our program by providing a first-rate educational experience for our homeowners and our devoted instructors.” See the attached for an overview of the education timeline completed by Habitat Homeowners.
Photos: EC pics
Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas County and West Pasco Counties
Since 1985, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties has served over 900 families and individuals through its new home buyer and neighborhood revitalization programs using locally raised funds. Volunteers and the future homeowners construct the homes, which are sold at no profit and financed with a zero-interest loan. Habitat homeowner candidates earn 30 to 80 percent of area median income. Candidates must demonstrate need for adequate shelter; ability to pay back a zero-interest loan and willingness to partner with Habitat to invest 350 to 450 “sweat equity” hours. Mortgage monies are used to build even more homes, making each donation to Habitat a perpetual legacy to the community. Habitat believes that homeownership contributes to family stability, leading, in turn, to community stability. Additionally, the affiliate raises funds through their two ReStores; home improvement outlets where donated household and building items are sold to the public. For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, call (727) 536-4755 or visit www.habitatpwp.org.