CMHC Helps Build A Child's Bedroom at Habitat for Humanity Build in Gravenhurst

GRAVENHURST, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Aug. 23, 2011) - Two families will soon have their own homes being built by Habitat for Humanity Muskoka as part of its 2011 build.

One of two houses currently under construction on Muskoka Beach Road will be home to the Gilmore's. Long-time Habitat partner Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) is sponsoring the bedroom for the Gilmore's first child with funds raised through charitable events.

As construction continues on the build, the CMHC build team, which included community stakeholders and CMHC staff, joined Habitat for Humanity Muskoka on site today to help build the homes.

"Since 2002, Habitat for Humanity Muskoka has stood side-by-side with low-income families, assisting them to their dream of homeownership. We have always relied on mobilizing volunteers and community partners in building affordable housing, and we could never have reached our goal without the generosity and assistance from organizations like CMHC," said Ellen Frood, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity Muskoka. "Knowing that CMHC is as committed to these families' dreams of homeownership makes this a strong partnership."

"CMHC has a long partnership with Habitat for Humanity in Ontario and we support their vital role in community development through building affordable, safe, and sustainable homes. It is very rewarding for CMHC to be part of this build," said Peter Friedmann, General Manager, Ontario Region, CMHC.

The Gilmore's and their children are looking forward to moving into their new home.

"This home will mean a great deal to my family and I. Without this opportunity, we would never have known what it was like to own our own home. Every member of our family struggles with some sort of physical or mental challenge and this new home will definitely benefit us spiritually, physically and mentally," said Gilmore. "To be able to rest my head at night knowing that my family is in a safe and healthy environment is priceless!"

Families who purchase homes from Habitat for Humanity are selected based on their level of need, their willingness to become partners in the Habitat for Humanity program and their ability to repay the no-interest mortgage. Families also provide 500 hours of construction labour, or "sweat equity," which helps develop their personal commitment to their home and their community.

Over the past 12 years, Habitat for Humanity Muskoka has built more than 10 homes alongside Habitat partner families in Muskoka. Habitat for Humanity Muskoka is a non-profit, faith-based organization working for a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. Its mission is to mobilize volunteers and community partners in building affordable housing and promoting homeownership as a means to breaking the cycle of poverty.

CMHC has been Canada's national housing agency for more than 65 years. CMHC is committed to helping Canadians access a wide choice of quality, environmentally sustainable, affordable housing solutions, while making vibrant, healthy communities and cities a reality across the country.