2006 Annual Report

BECOMING A
PARTNER FAMILY
Habitat for Humanity could not succeed without the hard work, dedication
and courage of our partner families. People living below the poverty line
who are able to repay an interest-free mortgage may qualify to become
partner families with Habitat for Humanity. These future homeowners put
in hundreds of hours of sweat equity, share the labour of homebuilding, and
participate in valuable training and preparation sessions. In return, their lives
are often transformed by the positive experience of receiving a hand up,
and the many benefits that come from owning their own home.
VOLUNTEERS ARE
ESSENTIAL
More than 35,000 people have volunteered with Habitat for Humanity
Canada, and thousands more have helped to build homes in other countries
through the Global Village program. We depend strongly on our volunteers.
They may be professional tradespeople donating a portion of their time and
expertise, or first-time builders who have never hammered a single nail.
Experienced builders gain the satisfaction of knowing they have contributed
something of real value to people who need it most. Newcomers have
the opportunity to learn construction skills in a supportive and safe
environment, and feel the pride of giving back to their community and their
society. Other volunteers work behind the scenes—on committees, raising
funds, creating advertising, supporting families and advocating in their own
communities. Through their combined efforts, volunteers enable us to
control the costs of homebuilding, and make housing affordable. They are
vital to our ongoing success.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HALTON’S
FOURTH HOME — ONE YEAR LATER
The Kettanah family has been living in their Habitat
Home in Burlington for about a year, and they happily
report an “enormous effect on their quality of life”.
Abraham, the youngest child in the family, is severely
handicapped. Living in an apartment posed several
difficulties. He suffered from many colds because the
environment could not be controlled. Access to the
outside was complex and risky. His behaviour upset
some of the other tenants.
But in the new Habitat Home, Abraham has been
much healthier. He started to go to school, and
is picked up by a bus in the driveway of his own
home. The house is designed to accommodate his
wheelchair, other utilities, and future requirements.
Abraham’s father, Tawfik Kettanah, says, “We thank
the Lord for all happenings and we believe that
thanking people is part of thanking God. Thank you
Habitat!”
(from Fall Edition of the Habitat for Humanity Halton newsletter)
PROVIDING COMFORT
“We have a vision to supply a quality product that will
provide comfort and security to every homeowner that
uses our windows and doors. By working with Habitat
for Humanity, we see many families realize their dreams
in partnership with the many volunteers who extend a
helping hand. It allows our people to truly be part of a
great cause in filling the great need for housing today.
Habitat for Humanity brings the credibility, marketing,
organizational skills, expertise, and experience that we
rely on to complement our vision.”
Mr. Henry Banman
Executive Vice President
All Weather Windows
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