Westport Duplex Latest Project for Habitat for Humanity [TOWNSQUARE SUNDAY]

When people think of Habitat for Humanity, they probably think of former President Jimmy Carter and his wife helping to build homes for needy families.

Sadly, President Carter is currently in hospice care, but the awareness he helped create for Habitat for Humanity has helped that organization continue to grow.

The Buzzards Bay Area Habitat for Humanity is helping needy families right here in our back yard.

Executive Director Christine Lacourse stopped by Townsquare Sunday this week to discuss the local Habitat and its latest project, a duplex being constructed off Sodom Road in Westport.

"We broke ground on that project in November, and we're finishing up the framing now," Lacourse said. "We've been working with Old Colony Vocational students and staff. They've been helping us frame during the week, and we have a crew of volunteers working on the weekends."

Lacourse said two single-parent families will occupy the duplex, and members of both families are currently volunteering at the site. She's hoping to have the project completed by the holidays.

The property itself was acquired by Habitat in partnership with the Westport Housing Trust and the town's Community Preservation Committee.

Lacourse admitted there's a misconception that people moving into Habitat homes get a house for free. That's not the case.

"People seeking a home have to undergo a financial background check, fill out an application, and put in 300 hours of 'sweat equity' on the project," she said. "When the build is done, they will close on a low-interest mortgage for the home."

For those interested in volunteering, making a monetary donation, providing building materials, or signing up to be a Habitat family, visit buzzardsbayhabitat.org.

Townsquare Sunday is a public affairs program heard Sundays at 6 a.m. and 11 a.m. on WBSM.

The program highlights individuals and organizations seeking to make the SouthCoast a better place to live and work.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please e-mail the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.