We are delighted to honor Tarie Mallard and her son, Cornelius as they set off on their path to becoming homeowners. Tarie, a dedicated mother and security officer, displayed remarkable resilience when confronted with difficult situations. Despite encountering electrical issues, mold challenges, and escalating rent costs, she remained steadfast in her determination to create a safe and stable home for her son. With unyielding determination and commitment, Tarie pursued our Habitat for Humanity homeownership program. Her persistence and diligence bore fruit in September 2023 when her family were approved. Ever since, Tarie and Cornelius, along with their loved ones, have invested more than 100 hours of hard work to transform their vision into a tangible achievement. Today, they celebrated a monumental milestone: the groundbreaking ceremony for their future home. Witnessing this moment unfold, surrounded by loved ones, Habitat staff and Board president, Jake Matthews, and Robert Smith and his wife Kathryn, was a testament to the power of community and steadfast determination. Many thanks to Alabama Habitat for Humanity Affiliate Support Office and their distribution of ARPA funds and all of the supporters of the Robert Smith Square Foot Challenge. Through their efforts, we will be able to complete 20 projects over the next two years changing the lives of families in our community for generations to come. Join us in congratulating Tarie and her family as they take this exciting step towards a brighter future!

A heartfelt thank you to Grace Episcopal Church! Their unwavering support, including Father Wally's personal delivery of a $9,150 donation from their Lobsterfest proceeds, is truly inspiring. For 25 years, Grace Church has hosted this incredible event, raising over $200,000 to support our mission of building affordable homes. Their continued generosity will help us "Raise the Roof" for even more families in 2024 and beyond! Last year, with the help of Grace Church and supporters like you, we raised over $112,000. However, rising building costs mean there's more work to do. This year, our goal is $150,000, and we need your help to reach it! Join Grace Church and countless others in building a brighter future for families. Donate today: https://givebutter.com/CCHFHRaisetheRoof24 . Your support directly impacts lives. By donating, you help us provide stable, affordable housing for families in our community. Everyone deserves a safe and secure place to call home. Let's work together to make that a reality.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, a formidable proponent for Civil Rights, recognized that racial justice also encompassed a highly disregarded justice for housing. And, in the nearly 60 years since his passing, sadly, Black Americans are still vying to experience "the real promises of democracy" through homeownership and economic freedom. The homeownership rate in the United States has been steadily increasing over the past decade, reaching 65.5% in 2021, up from 64.7% in 2011. However, a report released in March 2023 by the National Association of Realtors® revealed that the rate of Black homeownership has not kept pace with the growth seen in other racial groups. In fact, people of color endure significant buying challenges during and even after their home purchase, such as higher interest rates and redlining. With challenges still on the rise, we are committed more than ever to Dr. King's vision for everyone, regardless of race, to have access to "decent, safe, and sanitary housing"--a vision that has echoed deeply in our own mission for nearly 31 years. To honor Dr. King's life and legacy, Habitat supporters and volunteers gathered in Weaver, AL with the Mallory Family for our MLK Day of Service. Some 20 plus volunteers braved the cold to build the house frame and "raise the wall", a ceremonious event marking the beginning of construction of this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home. Tanisha Mallory, who was approved in September, smiled from ear to ear seeing her dream become a reality. She and her daughter, Takiyah, are currently living in an overcrowded situation and are eagerly counting the days until they can have a place to call their own. Overcrowding, defined as more than two people living in the same bedroom or multiple families living in one residence, can have serious affects on mental health, stress levels, relationships, and sleep, but in a Habitat home, families experience enhanced academic success, improved health, increased financial independence, and a sense of stability and security that many families struggle to attain. So, on today, and everyday, we challenge you to consider the impact of genuine service and one of life's most pressing questions--" what are you doing for others?" Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) acknowledges systemic injustices which continually shape policies and practices that intentionally threaten access to affordable housing for Black Americans. Because of that, we are committed to advancing Black homeownership and we invite you to join us in amplifying both Dr. King's and HFHI's vision. Just like those volunteers who braved the cold, you,too, can make a difference: Donate : Every dollar fuels Habitat's mission, building more homes and transforming lives like Tanisha's. Volunteer : Donate your time and skills, no matter how big or small. Every hand adds a brick to the foundation of hope. Raise awareness : Spread the word about Habitat's work and the ongoing struggle for housing justice. Advocate : Speak up for equitable access to housing and challenge outdated policies that perpetuate disparities. To those who answered the call to make a difference, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Many thanks to the City of Anniston for their generous distribution of HOME funds, the Howell family for their support as land sponsors, and our breakfast sponsor Jack's in Lenlock. This day would not have been possible without you. What will you do to answer Dr. King's call for service? Help us build a community where every dream finds a home.

On Tuesday, December 19th, CCHFH supporters, family, and friends facing the bitter winds of winter, were warmed by the heartfelt gratitude of a new partner family. As the sun peeked over the horizon, onlookers witnessed a milestone in our mission to build a community where everyone has access to safe, decent, and affordable housing – the momentous groundbreaking ceremony for our 160th home and safe haven for the Mallory family. Meet Tanisha Mallory, a woman whose grit and resilience shine brightly. Working in the field of food nutrition, she nourishes not just bodies, but dreams. Beside her, beamed her daughter, a bright-eyed elementary school student with her fiery heart set on becoming a choreographer. Their journey, however, hasn't always been easy. In 2021, their hopes for homeownership were met with a hurdle – a denial that could have dampened their dreams. But Tanisha persisted and with unwavering determination, she faced the challenge head-on, making necessary changes and demonstrating a tenacity that spoke volumes about her desire to build a better future for herself and her daughter. And two years later, she and her daughter stood, shovels poised and filled to the brim with thankfulness, ready to break ground on their future. Witnessing the Mallory family, looking toward the future, was a testament to the transformative power of a safe and stable home. Gratitude, however, isn't a solitary sentiment. Tanisha (center), on the brink of tears, noted that this milestone would not have happened without the support of partners like the City of Anniston and its distribution of HOME funds to build affordable housing in partnership with agencies like CCHFH and surrounding cities. Executive Director Amanda Pinson (right) also offered a special word of thanks to the Howell family, whose generous land donation provided the foundation for this dream and will shape a brighter future for the Mallory family for generations to come. Every brick laid, every roof raised, will be a collective effort – a symphony of compassion, dedication, and a shared belief that everyone deserves a decent place to call home. So, as we celebrate the Mallory family's groundbreaking, let it be a reminder that hope, nurtured by the support of our community, can blossom into beautiful realities. The Mallory family's story is a testament to the power of believing in second chances, in the indomitable human spirit, and in the power of communities coming together. Do you want to help this family build their future and their home? Learn about becoming a volunteer .

This Giving Tuesday we are honoring the living legacy of Robert Smith. No stranger to Habitat or hard work, Robert has committed himself to supporting our efforts for over two decades. From the worksite to the boardroom and everything in between, Robert has helped shape our affiliate into one of which we can be proud, so we are honoring him with a Square Foot Challenge. Robert has served in numerous capacities, including a Board member, the volunteer Executive Director, Partner Family support for several families during the Jimmy Carter Work Project, and as the Brush with Kindness Coordinator-- helping us complete over two dozen Brush with Kindness projects including leading the charge for rebuilding “Haley’s House”, a one-room structure that was destroyed during the deadly tornado in April 2021. The direct cost of a square foot in our program is $85 dollars, but every donation, no matter the size, helps make a difference. Here are some reasons why donating to the Square Foot Challenge is important : 1. It is a tangible way to help families achieve their dream of homeownership. 2. It helps to create strong communities. 3. It provides families with a safe and stable place to live. 4. It gives families the opportunity to build a better future for themselves and their children. 5. It is a way to honor the living legacy of Robert Smith, a longtime supporter of CCHFH. Robert has selflessly laid the foundation for building brighter futures for families in need, so from Giving Tuesday until February 01, 2024, show him your support by donating here .

Thanksgiving is less than 2 months away, and many of us are already thinking about carving the turkey, cheering for our favorite football team, and of course, everything that we're grateful for. But for the Tarrance family, different thoughts weigh on their minds this Thanksgiving-- celebrating homeownership. Yesterday, family, friends, and CCHFH supporters gathered to celebrate with the Tarrance family. Elmyra Tarrance worked diligently, with the support of her family, to make her dream of homeownership a reality, and we are so proud to have been a part of this life-changing experience. Elmyra didn't always know if the dream of homeownership would become a reality. She, like many aging Americans, faced seemingly insurmountable challenges, including living on a fixed income and a lack of affordable housing options. Inspired by her daughter who became a Habitat homeowner some twenty years ago, she never gave up on her dream and in 2021, she was approved. With the help of CCHFH and family and friends she made along the way, Elmyra began her tedious journey of completing sweat equity. She spent many hours working at her home, volunteering at other nonprofit agencies, and working to develop a budget and savings plan through a partnership with Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES). After many months of hard work and dedication, she finally achieved her dream of homeownership and is now the proud owner of a beautifully renovated home, where she and her family can celebrate her dream becoming a reality-- showing the world just how thankful they truly are. As we approach the holiday season, we are thrilled to give the gift of home. Elmyra's story is a reminder that anything, including homeownership, is possible with hard work, persistence, and the support of others. Becoming a Habitat homeowner is not a solo journey and requires support from the community, so how you can help? CCHFH continues to work hard to provide safe and affordable housing to families in need. If you're interested in supporting this important work, there are many ways to get involved. You can donate , volunteer your time, or simply spread the word about CCHFH's mission.

The results are in! Target Circle voting helped us receive a share of Target’s donation and we are ecstatic about what this donation means to creating safe, decent, and affordable housing for low-to-middle income families in our community. Because of your support, we were able to add $2,168.57 to our Raise the Roof Campaign! Thank you to Target and everyone who voted for us. We truly appreciate you.

Bathed in the warm embrace of the sun, which not only illuminated the world around us but also filled our hearts, family, friends, and CCHFH supporters came together on June 29th to commemorate a significant moment with the Long Family—marking their transition from partner family to homeowner. Lachanda Long, approved in 2019, endured many years of unsafe living conditions and substandard housing and recalled the joyous moment she learned she and her daughter Niyunna were accepted into the program, but her dreams were quickly dashed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Construction was halted, the first building site was deemed unfit, material prices soared, and the dangers of gathering in large groups prevented volunteer labor. With no reprieve in sight, Lachanda remained steadfast, and some four years later, she and her daughter are now standing in their beautiful home. As Lachanda and Niyunna stood side by side to embark on their new home ownership journey, several officials showed their support. Alabama State Senator Keith Kelly, Jacksonville Mayor Johnny Smith, and CCHFH Board members Jacksonville Councilwoman Sherry Laster and Jacksonville Chief of Police Marcus Wood, alongside dozens of other supporters, prayed for blessings of protection and prosperity. CCHFH's former Executive Director, Ron Hindman, who was honored with a Square Foot Challenge, spoke about his longstanding connection with the organization, dating back to the early 1990s. Additionally, he expressed pride that the Challenge allowed him and his late wife, Darline, to make a positive impact on this family's life. Ron then showed his gratitude to his children for their gift of a beautiful wooden rocker, which he hopes will serve as a constant reminder for The Longs to enjoy comfort and peace in this home for generations to come. In her closing remarks, Lachanda shared her gratitude to the City of Jacksonville, Publix, Grace Episcopal Church, Complete Construction, and all of those who supported the Ron and Darline Hindman Square Foot Challenge and the Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball. She closed with a statement that perfectly sums her journey over the past four years, "God might not do it when you want Him to, but He's always on time". If you would like to learn more about our program and how you can reach your own milestone of becoming a homeowner, contact us here .

Save the date! Lobsterfest is Saturday, October 21st! For over two decades, Grace Episcopal Church has been hosting Lobsterfest to benefit CCHFH, resulting in over $180,000 raised to support our vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live. Though tickets have not yet gone on sale, you can purchase a commemorative anniversary t-shirt for just $20! Reserve your shirts now by emailing socialmediagraceanniston@gmail.com with your name and desired shirt size.