After a lengthy delay, construction is on again at the Habitat for Humanity build in Mitchell.

Sheri Bueckert is Chair of the Family Selection Committee for the Southeast Chapter. She says construction on the side-by-side came to a halt for a few months due to COVID-19 restrictions. But, a few weeks ago they got going again. Bueckert says the stucco work is complete and both families have nearly reached the required amount of sweat equity hours. She notes they are optimistic that the project can be wrapped up by the end of November.

ble families.

To be eligible, families must prove there is a need. The committee will examine current living accommodations, taking into account such things as living in a place that is too expensive or a home that is not safe.

The families must also have the ability to help finance the project. Bueckert says Habitat for Humanity is an organization that helps people who do not have quite enough money for a down payment or who can not get financing for a house. She notes these are hard working families and the applicant must be working full time for at least two years in order to apply.

"The program does not, at this point, support people who are on social assistance," explains Bueckert. "So people do have to be working."

There is also an income guideline as far as falling within the low income cutoff in order to qualify. She notes they must have the ability to make a monthly payment of at least $600.

And finally, the families must show a willingness to partner. There is 500 hours of sweat equity per family that must go into a home. Further to that, she says there are several financial meetings and home owner training classes which they must attend, once approved.

According to Bueckert, a family does not need to currently be living in the Landmark area to qualify. Families only need to be willing to move to Landmark. Bueckert says historically, within five months of announcing their next build, they have their families approved.

Any family interested in applying should contact Sheri Bueckert at habitatsesheri@hotmail.com.