For many people, Habitat for Humanity is best known for building affordable homes.
But next week’s Habitat in Action Week is designed to show the community that’s only part of the story.
Running July 13 to 18, the inaugural event invites residents to volunteer, learn new skills and discover how Habitat for Humanity Northumberland is expanding its impact through critical home repairs, community partnerships and housing advocacy, alongside the homebuilding projects it has long been known for.
CEO Cathy Borowec says the week is an opportunity to highlight the many ways Habitat helps strengthen communities.
One of the week’s highlights is Building Stronger Communities – A Community Conversation, taking place Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. inside Habitat’s Cobourg ReStore. The free event will feature Habitat for Humanity Canada’s Senior Director of Programs, Stacey Sawchuk, and explore how safe, affordable housing depends on a strong continuum of support-from critical home repairs to pathways into home ownership.
That expanding role is already taking shape locally.
Borowec says Habitat has significantly increased its critical home repair program, helping homeowners complete repairs that keep them safely housed while also offering market-rate repair services for smaller jobs that can often be difficult to find contractors for.
Throughout the week, corporate volunteer teams will build sheds and other projects supporting Habitat’s work, while families can take part in birdhouse workshops, women can learn DIY skills building pallet plant stands, and shoppers can enjoy an exclusive after-hours ReStore event celebrating creativity, sustainability and furniture refinishing.
For Borowec, however, the week’s most important message is that solving housing challenges requires organizations working together.
Habitat in Action Week runs July 13 through 18 at locations across Northumberland. Registration is encouraged for workshops and Tuesday’s community conversation, with a complete schedule available at Habitat for Humanity Northumberland’s website.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
