Habitat for Humanity Carman-Dufferin is launching the new year with two interconnected initiatives aimed at advancing affordable housing in the region — a Valentine’s Day fundraiser and the start of its local Family Selection process.
The Valentine’s fundraiser, themed Home is Where the Heart Is, will take place Saturday, Feb. 14, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Active Living Centre in Carman. The evening will feature live music by the Tangled Strings Quartet, desserts, a wine and craft beer bar, and a 50/50 draw.
The theme was chosen not only to align with Valentine’s Day, but to reflect the broader values behind the event.
“Beyond the romantic notion of Valentine’s Day lies the deeper idea of compassion, empathy and selflessness,” said Ernie Bart, Carman Dufferin Habitat chairperson. “These are the qualities our community has shown time and again in support of Habitat’s work, and they’re what we want to celebrate during this evening.”
Proceeds from the event will support the construction of a new Habitat home planned for 146 1st St. SE in Carman.
Habitat Carman-Dufferin has raised approximately $70,000 through previous local fundraisers, but must raise an additional $200,000 to move the build forward.
Brief presentations will be delivered during the evening by the Hon. Bernadette Smith, minister of housing, homelessness and addictions; a representative from Habitat for Humanity Manitoba; build sponsor Calvin Polet, president of Neptune Properties and partner of True North Foods; and a member of the Family Selection committee.
Community-driven fundraising is essential to keeping Habitat projects moving forward, organizers said, noting that engagement and volunteerism are the foundation of each build.
“The house build itself is only one part of a much larger community effort,” organizers said. “There is significant work that goes into preparing, supporting and encouraging a family as they move into homeownership.”
The fundraiser coincides with the official launch of Habitat’s Family Selection process, which must be completed before construction can begin. Habitat is seeking applications from families who live and work in the Carman-Dufferin area, have children, and are interested in owning their first home.
Since the chapter’s last build in 2015, social and economic conditions have changed significantly, with rising housing costs and a recognized housing shortage affecting families locally and across the province.
In a letter of support, Carman CAO Susan Stein wrote that the chapter’s work “contributes significantly to community well-being by strengthening neighbourhoods, supporting economic stability, and fostering a sense of pride and belonging.”
Organizers note there are common misconceptions about Habitat homes, particularly around who qualifies.
“People don’t get Habitat homes — they buy them,” said Christina Falk, Regional Manager Habitat. Qualified families purchase their home at fair market value through a no-down-payment, no-interest mortgage, with payments structured so housing costs never exceed 27 per cent of household income.
Mortgage payments are reinvested into future builds, allowing Habitat to support additional families over time.
Information sessions and events will be held in the coming weeks to explain the Family Selection process and application requirements. More information is available by watching for local posters or by emailing H4HCarmanfamilyselection@gmail.com.
Habitat officials encourage residents to attend the Valentine’s fundraiser and support the chapter’s dual goals of fundraising and family selection.
“This is truly a community endeavour,” said Lorraine Girouard, Carman Dufferin Habitat treasurer. “By coming together, we can help ensure everyone has a decent, safe and affordable place to call home.”
