After two years of planning and much anticipation, Winnipeg was honoured to be a host city to the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project. Marking the 34th annual Carter build this is the second time since 1993 that former President Jimmy Carter comes to Winnipeg for Habitat for Humanity. As part of Canada’s 150th anniversary of confederation, Habitat will build 150 homes in Canada, 25 of which are in Winnipeg.

Habitat’s mandate is to offer safe, decent and affordable housing to low-income working families across the world in over 25 countries. Families partnering with Habitat for homeownership are offered an opportunity for a better life. Habitat for Humanity allows families that are financially vulnerable but motivated to improve the quality of their life, giving them a “hand up” not a “handout”.

Alair Homes Winnipeg was honoured to donate the entire week as House Leader to the Jimmy Carter Work Project. We were humbled to be working next to volunteers from Chicago, North Carolina, Halifax, Calgary, fellow Winnipeger’s and several from our own community of River Heights. The week was filled with happiness and an undeniable comradery. Volunteers abounded whether they be professional construction experts, contractors, inexperienced people swinging hammers, hospitality people serving delicious food or volunteer doctors tending to first aid needs. Not only did we work next to countless volunteers but with Christy, the actual homeowner. Christy is a single mother of five who will have a safe dwelling and neighborhood to raise her children. Successfully qualifying for a Habitat house required Christy and all candidates to be employed, able to afford the mortgage and to contribute 500 hours of sweat equity.

Habitat has a long history in Winnipeg starting in 1987. We have witnessed success due to the tireless effort put in by the great people of this generous city. Habitat continues to succeed in breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and Alair Homes hopes to be involved in the many years to come.