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Our Builds
How We Build
At Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex, our dedicated and generous team of volunteers and staff, donors and community partners make it possible to build more safe, affordable housing for lower-income families in core housing need.
With every hour volunteered, every dollar donated, and every partnership built, we are creating stronger communities and brighter futures.
Together, we aren't just building houses—we are making dreams of affordable homeownership a reality for families in Windsor-Essex.
Meet Our Families
HOME #137
Kashindi and Adolphine, and family
The journey to homeownership has been an uphill battle for this extraordinary family of eight—a story of resilience, determination, and unwavering hope. With six children ranging from infancy to young adulthood, they have faced the crushing weight of housing insecurity while still managing to excel. Their children are not only thriving academically but are also shining in athletics, earning accolades as award-winning runners and soccer players. The younger ones dream big, fueled by the love and sacrifices of their hardworking parents, who have tirelessly pursued employment opportunities, only to find the doors to secure, affordable housing closed time and again. They once believed that a safe, stable home was out of reach—until now.
Partnering with Habitat for Humanity has changed everything. True to their nature, they tackled their 500 hours of homeowner volunteerism with the same passion and determination that define them in every aspect of their lives. As a family, they completed their hours in record time, working side by side with dedication and heart. But their commitment didn’t stop there—long after fulfilling their requirement, they have continued to volunteer, showing up when we need them most, offering the same support and teamwork that have made them so successful. Their journey with Habitat has been about more than just securing a home; it has been about building a future, strengthening their community, and proving that when a family works together, they can achieve the impossible. Through Habitat’s model of a hand up to affordable homeownership through a geared-to-income mortgage, they have invested their time, energy, and skills to help make their dream a reality. Soon, they will have a place to call their own—a foundation where their children can continue to grow, achieve, and dream without fear of displacement. This home is more than bricks and mortar; it is the promise of a future filled with opportunity, security, and the certainty that no matter what, they will always have a place to come home to.
The History and Revitalization of Sandwich Town
Olde Sandwich Town, is home to landmarks like Mackenzie Hall, and the Duff Baby House. While this area boasts stunning architecture and deep cultural roots, it has also faced challenges, including vacant homes and a need for revitalization. Amid this transformation, Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex is making a tangible difference. We’ve welcomed four families home in Sandwich Town, with a fifth set for completion this spring. Each build not only restores the charm of Sandwich Town, but also strengthens our community, and we are proud to help shape a brighter future—one home at a time.
Lisa & Zoey
HOME #138
For Lisa and her daughter Zoey who has high needs, home has always been wherever they are together. But in their current overcrowded living situation, every day is a challenge. The lack of space makes it difficult for Zoey to grow and develop independence. Simple routines, like getting dressed become overwhelming in their cramped home. Lisa dreams of a place where Zoey can thrive—where there’s a quiet space for rest, and room to learn that encourages her to gain confidence in her abilities.
That dream is now on it's way to becoming a reality after previously built Habitat home became available again. With their future home on
the horizon, Lisa envisions a fresh start: a safe, stable place where Zoey can explore her potential and where Lisa can breathe easier, knowing her daughter has the space she needs to flourish. For Lisa and Zoey, this isn’t just a house—it’s a foundation for a brighter, more independent future. And with the support of Habitat and the community, they are finally stepping into a home that meets their needs, built with love, hope, and the promise of new beginnings.
Jimmy Carter Work Project - 2005
Lisa and Zoey’s journey to homeownership is taking them to a very special place—the 2005 Jimmy Carter Work Project home in Windsor-Essex. This home was a milestone build for Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex, part of a global initiative led by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter to bring communities together through affordable housing.
Now, nearly two decades later, this home is getting a new life as Lisa and Zoey prepare to move in soon, marking another incredible chapter in this build project's story. For Lisa and Zoey, this home represents more than just space to grow—it’s a fresh start. This is a beautiful full-circle moment: a home built with compassion and care in 2005 will once again serve its purpose, welcoming a new family ready to fill it with love, laughter, and new memories.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Build Sponsor:
With additional thanks to
