Press release: Pensacola Habitat for Humanity continued its rise over the past several years with an incredibly productive 2022, building enough homes to become the 13th largest Habitat for Humanity affiliate in the nation out of over 1,100 affiliates.
Over the past year, Pensacola Habitat for Humanity has expanded its production and climbed from its previous ranking of 25th despite some significant challenges. The scarcity of land, rising costs of materials, and economic uncertainty have all forced the affiliate to think strategically and outside the box to continue serving those who are too often left behind when it comes to affordable home ownership.
“We’re facing a lot of the same economic issues as everyone else in our line of work while also trying to ensure that adjusting to them doesn’t come at the expense of the people we serve,” Pensacola Habitat President and CEO Sam Young said. “The need in our community continues to be greater than ever, so we have worked diligently to do as much as we can to keep up with the demand and ensure quality.”
In 2022, Pensacola Habitat for Humanity saw 36 homeowners close on their new homes through the Home Buyer Program, with 44 additional new Home Buyers accepted into the program. On the other side of the homeownership equation, the Community Development Program grew by completing 35 critical home repair and aging in place projects and 12 yard cleanups to help existing homeowners remain in their homes. Annual partners like Florida Power & Light Company, IMPACT 100 – Pensacola Bay Area, and NeighborWorks America helped fund programs like Pensacola Habitat for Humanity’s Home Buyer Program, Weatherization and Repair Assistance Program (WRAP), and the creation of the Community Land Trust to serve more people, and people who are struggling in the community.
“I’m so proud of all that we’ve been able to accomplish with the help of our partners, volunteers, donors, and advocates in our community over the last year,” Young said. “To be recognized as one of the top-producing affiliates speaks to the remarkable dedication and passion of so many that powers our mission as we seek to continue making housing more attainable for everyone.”
For more information on Pensacola Habitat for Humanity’s programs, events and services, visit pensacolahabitat.org.
