Started in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fueller, Habitat for Humanity has been helping many families across the world by building homes. It started on the idea that “every man, woman and child should have a simple, decent, affordable place to live in dignity and safety” (www.habitat.org).

Since its start, the foundation has been able to build over 175,000 homes worldwide and over 900,000 people in over 3,000 communities have been able to enjoy their new homes.

This is an Ecumenical Christian organization that is completely non-profit and relies on the efforts of volunteers to build the houses. There are over 1,500 independent affiliates in the U.S. that have been able to house 30,000 families since the first affiliate started in Texas in 1978.

Here in South Florida, the organization has many build sites, including three in Miami. There are over 15 houses being built in South Miami and approximately 30 more coming up. The program especially helps families by giving them a home they can afford.

“They provide low price housing for low income families,” said senior Marta MacCullagh. “And they also give them a wider range of how to pay for these homes.”

Recently, the Interact Club, sponsored by Mr. Pablo Gomez, was able to help this organization here in Miami. Club members went down to the build site in Homestead and were able to help with things like landscaping.

“I called the organization and they were able to give me all the information,” said senior Giselle Lietensoeng. “We planned for about two weeks and about 15 members were able to go.”

The support that was given by the students is needed all over the world, since every day many families loose their homes. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, about 5.4 million American households face worst case housing needs.

“Makes you feel great, because you are able to help the community,” said senior Daniel Gutierrez. “We are able to meet the owners and share the experience with them.”

Even though the day only lasted five hours, the students were able to help these families, not only physically, but also emotionally.