YORKTON – The official sod turning of Habit for Humanity Yorkton's 10th home build was held May 23 at the home's construction site on Betts Avenue.
Local dignitaries, businesses, media, friends and family of the recipients were in attendance to hear about the organization's newest build in the city.
"Getting this house just shows that if you put the work in — no matter how hard things get — anything is possible," said future homeowner Alexis Chartrand in her address to attendees.
Chartrand said it was two years ago that she'd filled out a questionnaire to see if she qualified for a home through the organization and was informed to apply when the next build was set to start.
In November of 2023, Chartrand said she applied, but didn't think she would be picked.
"I took the risk. I got all the information in that I needed to successfully make an educated decision if this was the right thing for us," said Chartrand.
"Habitat gave me the chance by partnering with my family. This is exactly what my family and I needed. We're so grateful for this opportunity," added Chartrand, who has already contributed 110 hours of the 500 partnering hours required for the project.
Chartrand, a single mother who works full time as a nurse, said she leads a busy life with her children in sports and arts programs, but the home will offer stability.
"A habitat home is a solid foundation for a family. An opportunity on which we can build a better life," said Chartrand, adding, "stability for my family is fundamental and Habitat has made it possible by providing us with the basic tool in achieving this — a home."
According to a release from the provincial government, the multiple partners funding the project include:
- $65,000 from Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, funded through the Saskatchewan Priorities component of the Canada - Saskatchewan Bi-Lateral Agreement;
- $50,000 from Lakeview Insurance; and
- An in-kind donation from RH Electric of Yorkton.
Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Gene Makowsky, Minister of Social Services, was Yorkton MLA Greg Ottenbreit.
"Habitat gives people that life-changing opportunity of home ownership. Many Saskatchewan families have experienced the generosity of Habitat first-hand including families right here in Yorkton," said Ottenbreit.
"This is what community is all about. You can have a choice — you can step up or you can step back — everyone here today has stepped up," said Mayor Mitch Hippsley in his address, adding, "Yorkton is so fortunate to have such a committed organization."
According to the release,
- Canada's National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10-year, $82-plus billion plan that will give more Canadians a place to call home.
- NHS is built on strong partnerships between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments, and continuous engagement with municipalities, Indigenous governments and organizations, and the social and private housing sectors. It was created after consultations with Canadians from all walks of life, including those who have experienced housing need.
- All NHS investments delivered by the federal, provincial, and territorial governments will respect the key principles of NHS that support partnerships, people, and communities.
- In 2019, the Government of Canada and the Government of Saskatchewan entered into an agreement through the National Housing Strategy. The Canada-Saskatchewan Bilateral Agreement will invest $585 million over 10 years, which is cost-shared between the federal and provincial governments.
- Habitat for Humanity Saskatchewan is a local nonprofit housing organization with a vision where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. The partnership between Habitat and Saskatchewan Housing Corporation has resulted in the construction of more than 200 homes across 14 Saskatchewan communities since 2009.
"We are so proud to be starting our 10th build right here in Yorkton. Our dedicated team of volunteers truly loves what we do, and we work hard to help families in our community. This exciting 10th build is such a milestone for our Chapter, and we can't wait to continue the work we do for years to come," read a quote in the release from Habitat Saskatchewan Yorkton Chapter Co-Chair Sylvia Henheffer.
