Saratoga Springs – Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties broke ground on its second build in Saratoga Springs on Thursday, Oct. 6—an important milestone for the city in offering affordable housing in the community and helping new homeowners to manage their finances. A groundbreaking celebration took place at the construction site at 26 Cherry Street.
The new two-family unit is a result of a partnership between the City of Saratoga Springs, the Saratoga Builders Association, Rebuilding Together Saratoga and community volunteers, and is largely possible due to a new partnership between Habitat for Humanity and a Thrivent Financial, through which Thrivent has awarded $70,000 to support construction. Thrivent Builds focuses on the construction of new homes alongside Habitat partner families, who contribute hundreds of sweat equity hours in the construction process and pay a zero interest mortgage for their home.
“It is wonderful to be part of a company that not only helps individuals and families make sound financial decisions, but that also encourages those same people to live generously in their communities,” said local Thrivent Financial Associate, Bill Bufkins, who also serves on the Board of Directors for the local affiliate. “When I joined Thrivent I learned about the relationship with Habitat – that’s what inspired me to get involved.”
Habitat for Humanity recipient families come from different backgrounds and have different stories, but are similar in their desire for a safe, decent place to live. Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties works with such families in the local community to provide a “hand-up” in regards to permanent housing solutions. The partnership between Habitat and Thrivent Builds is now helping two new families improve their financial literacy and build a foundation for a brighter future.
“We are pleased to go into the second half of the Saratoga Springs Workforce Housing project with so much positive momentum from the build at 195 Division Street. Adding Thrivent Financial Services to our team is a great asset. We are fortunate to have been selected for the Thrivent Builds Program, and look forward to introducing this dynamic organization to our community,” said Tammy DiCara, President of the local affiliate.