August 29, 2013 became a most memorable day for 10 families,.  The final 10 homes in the Aurora Place Habitat for Humanity project were turned over to their new owners.  The event was attended by so very many well wishers filled with congratulations to both owners and the Habitat for Humanity organization.

The Aurora Place model was conceived by Habitat for Humanity to provide needed housing in St. Albert.  Their mission is to promote home ownership for those who wouldn’t normally qualify for a traditional mortgage.

Through volunteer labour, efficient management and tax-deductible donations and materials, safe, decent and affordable houses are either built or rehabilitated.. These “Habitat” houses are then sold to partner families at cost and are financed with affordable, no-interest mortgages. Monthly mortgage payments go into a revolving fund which is used to build more homes within the community.  The goal is to break the cycle of poverty by giving a hand up rather than a hand out.

Each homeowner is required to invest hundreds of hours of “sweat equity” into the building of their home as well as the homes of others.

There are many benefits that acrue to the community from projects sponsored by Habitat for Humanity.  Aurora Place is a welcome addition to the City of St. Albert.

Council held to the vision that the Habitat project would ultimately bring new vitality and strength to Akinsdale and provide affordable housing to families in need.

On August 29, the last 10 keys were presented to each family.  Ten families now have a house to put their home in.  As a St. Albertan I felt such pride in what our City has gained.  We not only cultivate the arts and the environment.  We cultivate humanity.  It is something that all citizens of our award winning community can celebrate.