Habitat for Humanity of the Jacksonville Beaches will hold a groundbreaking for its largest subdivision (32 dwelling units) at the corner of Mayport Road and AIA North. The event is on Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 12:30 p.m. The 4 acre site, known as Haywood Estates, will be home to two story duplexes. The subdivision will provide simple decent affordable housing for very low and low income homeowners (30 to 60% of median income). Habitat for Humanity Homes are sold to each homeowner and financed with a “0 interest” 25 year mortgage held by us. The monthly mortgage payment is $450 including taxes, insurance, termite bond and a home repair escrow.

The first home in Haywood Estates will be sponsored by Palms Presbyterian Church. As a sponsor, Palms will help build the house and provide financial resources necessary to purchase materials used in the construction. In addition to Palms Presbyterian, Beach United Methodist Church has committed to sponsoring one of the homes in the new subdivision.

The need for affordable housing in the Beaches is critical. Over 800 families have lost their apartments, homes or trailers due to property speculation especially in the Mayport corridor, including Mayport Road. “At present, we are the only builder of low income housing at the Beaches. This development will put us over 200 homes in a Beaches community of less than 50,000 in population,” said Executive Director Ralph Marcello.

Marcello added, “Not only do we build homes, but we also build communities and futures. Our education program provides our new homeowners with extensive training including financial workshops as well as homeownership and home maintenance and repair. Also our homeowner’s children have the opportunity to attend the University of North Florida (UNF) or Florida Community College at Jacksonville (FCCJ) on a fully paid scholarship. A Prep Club and After School Tutoring Program provide support for our younger children to help make education a priority. Cash awards for perfect attendance and academic excellence have extended our Prep Club program to over 150 children of Habitat homeowners.”

Please call Mary Anne Christensen at 241-1222 if you have any questions.