Habitat for Humanity hosts holiday construction launch for SoWe renovation (video)

Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity held launch ceremony on Friday for its next “home build” project: The renovation of a condemned property on Saint Joseph Street in Lancaster’s SoWe neighborhood.

Its future buyer, Kenya McGrier, is very excited to begin working.

“I’m looking forward to having a place to call my own,” she said.

Would-be homeowners are able to apply to Habitat of Humanity’s homeownership program. Among other things, it requires 250 hours of sweat equity. McGrier has already completed more than 100 hours since enrolling in April.

Guests were invited to write encouragements to future homeowner Kenya McGrier on a two-by-four. Click to enlarge. (Photo: Kyle Gamble)

“Home is such an essential in life,” said Habitat spokeswoman Amy Balestier. “… So many opportunities open up when a family has a safe, warm, and affordable place to call home.”

“I’m grateful for Lancaster-Lebanon Habitat because they opened a door for me that nobody else was giving me,” McGrier said.

Balestier said Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity has 16 homebuyers in its homeownership program for 2024. The organization has many projects planned throughout its service area, including a four-unit project in Columbia Borough.