HUNTSVILLE – Habitat for Humanity homeowners and administrators from the region will join others from Alabama and across the United States next week to advocate for the organization on Capitol Hill.
The trip to Washington, D.C., represents an opportunity for Habitat for Humanity to promote impactful and sustainable housing programs that benefit families in need and contribute to the overall well-being of communities, the organization said.
Local homeowners Kathleen Moore of Morgan County and Essence Nesbit of Huntsville will share their stories of achieving homeownership and the impact of having a safe and affordable home with members of Alabama’s legislative delegation when the group convenes Tuesday.
“I am excited, and honored, to be invited to Washington, D.C., to share my family’s story of how Habitat for Humanity provided an avenue to homeownership and helped change our lives during a very challenging time,” said Kathleen Moore of Morgan County. “I’m hoping sharing my story will help to bring insight to decisionmakers in Washington that will open doors for others to have the housing security I now experience.”
Moore and Nesbit will be accompanied by Landis Griffin, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Morgan County; and Jeremy Foulks, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of the River Valley; and other Habitat for Humanity representatives.
“The purpose of this visit is to shed light on the profound impact Habitat for Humanity has had on the families we serve, our local communities, and across the country,” said Griffin, who also serves as the president of the Alabama Association of Habitat Affiliates. “As Habitat affiliates, we witness firsthand the transformative effects of Habitat’s work, and we are eager to share these impactful stories in Washington.’’
Foulks said a goal is to let lawmakers know of the housing crisis facing the area an the nation.
“We continue to face a housing crisis in north Alabama and throughout much of the country,” he said. “Our aim is to inspire members of Congress to support sensible housing programs that truly invest in our communities.
“Despite the political divide in Washington, I believe that programs focusing on homeownership and stable housing will garner bipartisan support and deliver a strong return on taxpayers’ Investment.”
Nesbit has been a homeowner for several years and wants to let the politicians know how Habitat has provided a positive impact on her life.
“I’m so thankful for the opportunity to be considered to represent my fellow Habitat homeowners on the Hill,” she said. “I’ve been a homeowner for almost 10 years now and I know the impact that owning my own home has provided for myself and my daughter.
“Being able to speak up and make sure this opportunity stays available to future families are definitely something I want to be involved with.”
The trip to Washington, which wraps up Thursday, will be followed by a trip to Montgomery on Feb. 15 to meet with Alabama state legislative representatives and government officials.
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