Habitat for Humanity is seeking the next DeKalb County Partner Family.
At this time next year, you could be living in your own home.
An Information Meeting and Application Fair will be held Thursday, June 9, from 6-7 p.m. at the Methodist Family Life Center next to Love-Cantrell Funeral Home in downtown Smithville
Agents will be on hand to answer all questions and help applicants on their way to purchase the next Habitat home in the area.
Local Habitat director Sharon Evans told the Review that there are a few common misconceptions about the way the organization works.
“Habitat does not give away houses,” Evans said,  “Our homeowners invest 500 hours of work - "sweat equity" into their own homes as part of their down payment.
“Children may earn sweat equity hours with good grades and community service.
“They then purchase the house and pay a monthly mortgage to Habitat that covers building expenses.” she continued. “They pay city and county taxes, like all other homeowners.
“We can partner with families who already own land, provided it is suitable for construction.
“Applicants must have resided in DeKalb County at least one year.  They must be a U.S. Citizen or have permanent resident alien status.
“Anyone interested in applying with Habitat (with or without attending the meeting) can request an application by calling 615-215-8181 or by writing to P.O. Box 750.
“We work hard to raise money through fund raisers and grants,” Evans explained, “But individual contributions are a big part of our work.
“To build the next home, we're inviting people to join our "Square Foot Club".
“People can 'buy' a square foot of the next home for $47.91. They'll be invited to sign their name to the sub-floor of the next house to celebrate."
For more information see http://www.habitat.org/how/myths.aspx, and http://www.smithvillereview.com