UC Habitat For Humanity Reminding Community That Help Is Out There

Upper Cumberland Habitat for Humanity is reaching out to those in need of housing but no where to turn.

Executive Director Pam Ealey said they serve anyone, from young families to seniors. Ealey said often the issue with getting people to apply is convincing them the help is out there.

“For someone who hears about our program and really understands our program, encourages someone in their life,” Ealey said. “Maybe it’s a coworker, maybe it’s the aide that’s taking care of their mother at the nursing home, maybe it’s your favorite waitress.”

Ealey said this is not a quick process for applicants though, saying it could take between 12 to 18 months. However, Ealey said when the home is finished, new homeowners become family.

She said together they see the process through.

“Seeing people willing to give 4,5,6 hours of their day to help this stranger they’ve never met before build their home,” Ealey said. “It truly impacts their lives and I hear a lot of times from families, I wish someone would remind people that we work hard for these homes.”

Ealey said the big picture of becoming a first time homeowner can change a generation. She said the process can begin by making an appointment and meeting in person.

“Make sure they understand that we don’t want to hand them an application and they walk out the door,” Ealey said. “We want them to understand what the benefits are and how important this is. Then they bring the application back and Lanette (Hill) reviews it if there is an issue.”

Ealey said that no one should be discouraged from reapplying if they have not been accepted the first time. She said Putnam and Overton County residents can call the office year round and ask for Lanette Hill.