The Unitarian Universalists (UUs) of SCV have chosen SFV/SCV Habitat for Humanity as the recipient of the August 19th special collection. The UUs have invited Joyce Grair, Community Outreach Director, to speak on that day. This organization prides itself on being a, “hand up,” rather than a “hand out.” Richard Galway of the organization reports that currently the focus is on a housing development in Pacoima, where they are poised to start the second phase.
They are in the very early stages of a project here in the SCV, meeting with local community leaders, obtaining financing, a worksite and doing all the preliminary groundwork that must be done before actual building can begin.
In order to qualify for a house, family income must be half the median income for the size of the family, must give 500 hours in sweat equity, community service or other specified activity. Should the family need to sell, the sales and mortgage agreement includes a requirement that the house must be sold to another low income family subject to the same requirements a new Habitat house purchaser would be required to meet.
Habitat for Humanity provides services to the family both before and after moving in, to help with budgeting, home maintenance and even tutoring for the kids, if needed.
Unitarian Universalists draw upon the teachings of many of the world’s faiths to help individuals build their own theology. The church is built around a set of values rather than a fixed belief system. Services are held each Sunday at 10:30 a.m., at the SCV Senior Center, 22900 Market Street in Newhall.
For directions and further information, visit www.UUofSCV.org or call 661-254-7866.