Presidents Message

     It is my belief that the opportunities and challenges facing Habitat for Humanity of Greater Apopka are promising at this point in the life of our organization.  One of these opportunities involves the affiliate’s Restore, which is entering its third year of operation.  Another is the fact that we are committed to increasing the number of homes we build annually, and just recently built our 20th home. 

     Currently, the Restore is the key to developing the affiliate’s presence in our community.  Northwest Orange County has many generous donors and volunteers whose time and treasures enable us to build affordable housing.  The resale of donated appliances, furniture and home improvement materials to the public enables our affiliate to support our housing ministry. We very much appreciate all of our donors and shoppers.

     Building our twentieth home in 2007 and now renovating 12 apartment units for a housing agency in 2007-2008, is an important milestone for our affiliate.  However, to reach our goal of building 10 homes per year, we need to acquire land.  The rising cost of land in Central Florida is the biggest obstacle we face.  We need donated land or funds to purchase land to achieve our stated goals and enhance our capacity to serve more families in need of homes in the Apopka area.  We offer many donor incentives for donations of land associated with the Orange County Work-Force Housing Task Force (which may allow a developer to increase density), or through our designation as a Sponsor of the Community Contribution Tax Credit Program in which qualifying donors can receive a 50% tax credit or refund on the market value of their donation.  Call our office at 407-880-8881 to learn more about these opportunities!

      Due to the reduced availability of affordable housing and the rising cost of land, we must work harder than ever to ensure that affordable, decent housing is available to more families in the near future.  Please continue to support our mission with your generosity and your prayers.  Providing affordable work-force housing not only creates opportunities for families in need, it strengthens the economic and social fabric of our community!

Kenneth J. Wareham
President Habitat-Apopka Board of Directors