CMHC Helps Build a Child's Bedroom at Habitat for Humanity Build in Hamilton

HAMILTON, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 26, 2011) - A family of five will soon have a home to call their own in phase two of the Robert Land Project being built by Habitat for Humanity Hamilton.

One of the four homes currently under construction on Niagara Street in north Hamilton will be home to Cloe and Paw and their three children. Long-time Habitat partner Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) is sponsoring a bedroom for one of the children with funds raised through charitable events.

"The community has really come together to support Habitat for Humanity Hamilton, and to welcome us and our families into the neighbourhood. The local community and our partners, including CMHC, are equally excited as us to see phase two start to take shape," said Gail Berry-Graham, Director of Resource Development, Habitat for Humanity Hamilton.

Habitat for Humanity recently launched phase two of the Robert Land Project. Four additional townhomes are being built alongside the four homes constructed on the site under phase one, helping four more families to break the cycle of poverty. The homes incorporate energy-efficient building practices and materials.

"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's very rewarding for CMHC to be part of this," said Peter Friedmann, General Manager, Ontario Region, CMHC.

Cloe is currently in school to improve her English skills so she can get a better job to help support her family. Cloe and Paw have been putting in their volunteer hours helping to complete the homes in phase one. "We are excited to see our own house being started and we can't wait to see our family have a safe place to live and grow up," they said.

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.

Habitat for Humanity is celebrating 20 years in Hamilton. Habitat for Humanity Hamilton 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.