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RICHLAND -- It isn't much good having a home without a family to fill it.
Tri-Cities Habitat for Humanity has lots for houses and money to build them. But Theresa Richardson, the program's executive director, said it lacks families to make the homes theirs.
"We've never been in this situation before," she said.
Richardson said the nonprofit is still getting applications. But many families have such bad credit they can't afford the monthly mortgage payments of $550 to $600 on the no-interest loans.
The nonprofit has asked families with bad credit to seek consumer credit counseling, then reapply in six months.
So for now, lots are sitting empty, waiting.
There are five Kennewick lots on Yolo Street ready for houses now, with just one family waiting, Richardson said. Normally, there would be a dozen.
Two other Habitat homes are almost finished on Yolo Street, and another will be finished in May.
Since the local Habitat for Humanity started its sweat-equity housing in 1994, 62 houses have been dedicated.
"We've never had a foreclosure," Richardson said.
Families qualify for the homes based on need, their ability to pay back the no-interest loan and a willingness to put in 500 hours of their own labor. A family of four with an income of $19,450 to $40,000 a year qualifies.
"They are people who are hard-working and are looking for a hand up instead of a handout," Richardson said.
The nonprofit sells the homes for whatever they cost to build. On average, the loan is for $93,000, and the home is appraised at about $120,000, Richardson said.
With the rental vacancy rate near zero, Richardson said the organization knows there is a need for housing.
A three-bedroom apartment can start at $940 a month.
But she said the nonprofit has considered a change in focus. Maybe transitional housing or lease-to-own units are more what the community needs.
Meanwhile, it needs more families to apply and is waiting to hear back on a state grant that would pay for six to 12 lots for sweat-equity homes.
Richardson said the grant would allow the group to add homes to the 21 built previously in the Tierra Vida neighborhood in east Pasco.
Habitat also started "A Brush with Kindness," which helps homeowners with exterior and landscaping needs. Richardson said the program is meant for elderly or disabled residents.
So far, it has helped one elderly man with a variety of work, including new windows and plumbing, and is looking for more homeowners who need help.
Applications for all Habitat programs are available at the Richland office at 313 Wellsian Way or by calling 509-943-5555.
-- Kristi Pihl: 509-582-1512; kpihl@tricityherald.com
