Habitat for Humanity returns to Carman for a second chapter
In a world where the housing crisis continues to grow more daunting, many families doing their best still struggle to keep up with the cost of living. Habitat for Humanity remains committed to providing stability for those who need a helping hand. Back for a second chapter in Carman, the organization has supported families across the Interlake — including in Selkirk, Gimli, and Winkler-Morden — in their fight against housing insecurity.
The first Carman-Dufferin chapter was formed in September 2012 under chair Harold Kenyon, and the home was completed in 2016. Thanks to private donations, a crop harvest, and proceeds from golf and curling fundraisers, local volunteers were able to provide a home — and a fresh start — for a family in need.
Now working to revive the chapter are Brent McDonald, a member of the original project, and Ernie Bart. With a projected cost of $250,000, the pair is leading fundraising efforts through community events such as concerts, local business donations, and grant applications. Gifts of materials and volunteer labour are also welcome. So far, approximately $30,000 has been raised for the project. At this rate, organizers hope the family selection process can begin in 2026.
That process will involve forming a selection committee to begin taking applications. In addition to meeting eligibility criteria — such as having children under 18 and not currently owning a home — applicants must undergo credit checks, provide references, and participate in credit counselling. Selected families must have minimal debt, a stable income, and hold a job within the community.
Christina Falk, manager of Chapter Support at Habitat for Humanity Manitoba, said the impact of the program on families and communities is clear.
“We hear about the affordable housing crisis across this country constantly on the news. It is a problem in every corner of the country, and Manitoba is no exception,” she said. “Carman has many people who are bussed in to work at local businesses because there are not enough homes in which they can live.”
Falk began working with Habitat after she and her husband helped start the Winkler-Morden chapter seven years ago. She volunteered until last year, when she accepted her current role.
“My position is to give support to all of the chapters outside of Winnipeg and Brandon around the province, and I love it. It’s the ideal scenario — when the volunteering that you love to do in your free time actually turns into a job.”
Families that partner with Habitat receive a mortgage based on their income. The mortgage is interest-free and requires no down payment. Homes are purchased at market value.
“As partner families make their monthly mortgage payments, those payments will stay in Carman and be used towards the next house build,” Falk said. “This means that every Habitat homeowner is not only strengthening their own family’s financial situation, but just by making their mortgage payments, they are helping the next family get into a home of their own.”
“There are many different approaches to dealing with the affordable housing crisis, and I believe that the Habitat model is an actual solution to this problem,” she added. “It has been working in Canada for 40 years, and we believe it will continue to be a solution for hard-working families in our province.”
Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers to help get the next chapter in Carman off the ground. Anyone interested in joining the committee or supporting the build is encouraged to reach out.
To get involved, contact Ernie Bart at erniebart70@gmail.com or Christina Falk at 204-362-5026.
