This June, Dorchester Habitat for Humanity is launching the $8,000 for House 80 Campaign in celebration of a major milestone– its 80th home build.
The campaign will reinforce the construction of the home for Maria Mora, a hardworking mother whose journey reflects perseverance, determination, and personal growth. Mora first applied to Dorchester’s Habitat program in 2019 but did not initially qualify. Rather than giving up, she remained committed to creating a stronger financial future and continued working toward her goal of owning a home.
Mora’s home is part of Dorchester Habitat’s “Building Dreams on Dean Drive” initiative, which continues to expand affordable housing opportunities for local families in Summerville, S.C. While early construction faced delays due to sewer line reconfiguration, development moved forward through collaboration and assistance from Dorchester County, RH Moore Company, and National Trench Safety.
“These partnerships made it possible to overcome major site development challenges and keep our mission moving forward,” said Jaye Jones Elliott, president and CEO of Dorchester Habitat for Humanity.
Dorchester Habitat for Humanity offers a financial coaching program for future homeowners and homeownership applicants, including families like Maria Mora. Through a partnership with First Capital Bank, the program is provided at no cost to participants and is led by Tamara Rivers of The Financial Transformation LLC. To date, the financial coaching initiative has provided more than 6,500 coaching sessions, equipping future homeowners with essential skills in budgeting, saving, credit improvement, and mortgage management.
“First Capital Bank is committed to providing meaningful impact to the individuals and communities we serve,” said Joe Kassim, chief executive officer of First Capital Bank. “We are proud to support programs that empower families and create pathways to financial stability and stable housing.”
The project has also been supported through volunteers, sponsors, community fundraising efforts, and contributions to the Dorchester Habitat ReStore, which helps fund affordable housing initiatives throughout the community.
The public is invited to attend and celebrate the Home Dedication Ceremony which will be announced in the upcoming weeks. Dorchester Habitat for Humanity is also excited to share that they are breaking ground on their next project located at Twin Lakes in Summerville and continues building strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership.
To learn more about Dorchester Habitat for Humanity, volunteer, donate, or shop the ReStore, visit Dorchester Habitat for Humanity website.