Queens Habitat build closer to reality

Progress is moving steadily along, since the Queens build group began working last year. The land is secured, located on Amherst St., as well as some additional land around the site. “In the future, if another build comes to Queens Co., we have an opportunity to build another house or duplex on the site,” says Hank Middleton, who is in charge of public relations for the South Shore.

For building to begin, about $60,000 must be raised. As of the end of June, Habitat had raised over $40,000, and hopes to have the rest by their next meeting on July 21. This can be cash or gifts in kind, which are things like building materials and professional time.

All donations are tax deductable as well.

A few big things the volunteers wouldn’t mind being donated as well include windows and doors, siding, cabinets and a heating system for the house. “The good news is, once we reach this goal, we can access another $25,000 to come into this build,” says Middleton.

This money comes from the Department of Community Services and was set aside for the next build to take place outside of Halifax. Queens Co. is in that lucky position.

Also needed are a few key people, in order to do the build properly. They need a Site Manager, who acts as the foreman of the build, and a Build Manager, who ensures materials and labour are there when they need them.

A Health and Safety coordinator is also necessary. This person doesn’t have to be there all the time, but does need to periodically check in to make sure everything is being done safely.

Now that the build is getting closer, they are looking for volunteers, from labourers to people with specific skills like plumbing and electrical work. Anyone interested can get a form at www.habitatsouthshore.ca or contact Patrice Gibson at 354-4838.

If everything comes together, the group hopes to begin construction at the beginning of Sept. With good weather, construction could be completed by the end of Nov.

Habitat for Humanity South Shore Chapter covers Lunenburg and Queens Co, and is a chapter of the main Habitat group in Halifax. However they operate under their own board, and are responsible for raising their own funds. The plan is to have a build every two years, alternating between the two counties.