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Neighbor News

Helping a Mother Build her Dream Home

State Farm Awards $10,000 to Alachua County Habitat for Humanity

( Shinda and her three boys)

Alachua Habitat for Humanity is thrilled to share news of a recent grant from State Farm, a crucial boost to their ongoing mission of providing safe, decent, and affordable housing for the residents of Alachua County. This generous grant will be specifically directed towards procuring essential materials and supplies for the construction of Shinda's future home in the City of Alachua.

In a show of steadfast commitment, State Farm has not only offered financial support but has also pledged the time of their agents, who will volunteer on various Alachua Habitat build sites throughout the upcoming year. Stevie Doyle, Executive Director of Alachua Habitat for Humanity, expressed gratitude for the enduring partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to partner with State Farm, a dedicated supporter of Habitat for many years." State Farm's involvement extends beyond monetary contributions, emphasizing active volunteerism and community grants to strengthen the neighborhoods they serve.

The grant funds are poised to make a significant impact, providing Shinda, a dedicated mother of three boys, with the means to build her new home in her hometown of Alachua. Despite facing recent challenges, including residing in a cramped apartment in a neighborhood with a history of gun violence, Shinda is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to build her future home alongside her eldest son, laying the foundation for a brighter future for her family.

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Alongside focusing on her children, career and education, Shinda envisions obtaining her CNA license and establishing a compassionate at-home center for kids facing homelessness, runaways, or troubled circumstances. She aims to make a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children and guide them towards a better future.

In order to qualify for an Alachua Habitat for Humanity home, a family must be willing to partner with Habitat by demonstrating a need for housing, completing 250 hours working to build their home and another’s, attend financial literacy and relevant homeownership classes and they must be able to assume an affordable mortgage payment at the end of the build.

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For more information about this build, please contact Stevie Doyle at 352-371-5871.

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