For the City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — Salt & Peper’s Drive-In is hosting a fundraiser for the Wisconsin Rapids Area Habitat for Humanity.

According to a press release, during the week of September 4, 2017, 50 percent of profits from all specials and 100 percent of all profits from the sale of root beer will go to habitat.

Habitat homes are built using volunteer labor and donated materials.  They build modest homes that meet the basic needs of local families.  The average mortgage for a new habitat family home in South Wood County is between $50,000 -$80,000.

Their affiliate has built homes for families that mirror the diversity in our community including those with numerous children or small families, Hispanic families, Hmong families, single parent families and families with handicapped children. With completion of the last home, we have provided 51 local children a comfortable, safe place to call home.  Families are offered ongoing support as they adjust to new home ownership.

“Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit, ecumenical, Christian housing ministry. Our organization is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI).  We were founded with the 1994 Wisconsin Rapids Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership Program and renew our covenant with HFHI annually.   Our organization is non-profit without any paid staff.  We are directed through a volunteer Board of Directors.  WRAHFH builds homes according to HFHI building principles and, to date, has built 16 homes in the South Wood County area.”

Selection criteria for eligible families include:

• Families must live in South Wood County for a minimum of 2 years
• Families must have an annual income within Habitat guidelines to assure their ability to afford and maintain home ownership.
• Families must contribute a minimum of 500 hours per couple in “sweat equity” for their home project.
• Families must maintain their home, pay property taxes, and have current homeowners insurance.

To obtain an application, please go to the Habitat website at www.wrahfh.org.