THE SHOALS-Shoals Habitat for Humanity broke ground on their 80th home in the Shoals Wednesday, October 10, at 12:30 p.m.. This home will be built, with and for Hulsey family of Greenhill. It was a heartwarming moment as Shoals Habitat for Humanity’s construction team, volunteers and the new homeowners broke ground on the start of the new home for Brant and Taylor Hulsey and their two children. Four hundred sweat-equity hours, worked over the last 10 months were required of the family, in anticipation of this event.
Taylor Hulsey said, “We can’t believe it’s finally happening!” She also says the family is, “really excited and blessed that the house is under way!” She expressed her joy regarding this home building team and is thankful for the Shoals Habitat for Humanity for all they have done.
Once completed, the Hulsey family will purchase the home with a zero-interest mortgage, and make the regular monthly house payment. In the true Habitat for Humanity spirit, a Habitat home is a hand up, not a hand out. The Hulsey family sought the help of Shoals Habitat because they struggled to find a suitable handicapped-accessible home for their young son who requires the use of a wheelchair. Ten-year-old Hayden suffered irreparable spinal injuries after a car crash several years ago.
Bob Carlson, Shoals Habitat’s new Construction Manager, is eager to begin this project. “I have volunteered with Habitat for Humanity affiliates on a number of occasions, building new construction in hurricane relief areas.” said Carlson. “I have advised and consulted with construction organizations worldwide and it is very special for me to stay in my home area and be a small part of Shoals Habitat for Humanity’s work.”
“Home number 80 is an exciting opportunity to lead a great team of existing volunteers along with helping a very deserving family, build an accessible home for their son,” said Carlson.
The new 1300-square-foot home, designed by Jill Andrews of Create Architects, is on County Road 144 in the Greenhill area of northern Lauderdale county. It is expected to be near completion by the end of the year.
Shoals Habitat for Humanity is always looking for hard working volunteers to join the growing team. For more information on how to get involved with Shoals Habitat for Humanity visit, www.shoalshabitat.org o
Shoals Habitat for Humanity homes are funded by recycled mortgage dollars, profits from the north Florence ReStore and donations from local businesses and individuals. For information on how to donate to the Hulsey project or any other Habitat project, call 256-760-9515 or visit our website www.shoalshabitat.org.
Media Release/Shoals Habitat for Humanity/Ellie Vaughn
