Habitat for Humanity of Catoosa County will begin their application process for potential homeowners on Friday. “Anyone who is in need of decent shelter and does not own their own home is welcome to apply,” said Penny Mahon, Catoosa Habitat’s executive director. “By applying a person has taken the first step to a better housing situation.”
Ms. Mahon emphasized, however, that Habitat for Humanity homes are not free. “They do have to pay back a mortgage but it is interest-free. The potential homeowner also has to perform sweat equity associated with the building of their home.” Sweat equity is when future homeowners help to physically build their home, the homes of other Habitat families, as well as taking classes on financial stability and how to be a knowledgeable homeowner.
Catoosa Habitat will be hosting two application orientation meetings during the month of September. The first orientation will be held on Sept. 12 at First Baptist Church of Ringgold, 7611 Nashville St., at 7 p.m. The second orientation will be held on Sept. 23 at the Catoosa County Library, 108 Catoosa Cir., Ringgold, at 10 a.m. Anyone wanting to apply for a Habitat home is strongly encouraged to attend these meetings as information will be given out about the application process and what is expected of those who become a partner family with Catoosa Habitat.
“People who attend either meeting will be able to apply that day,” said Ms. Mahon. “Helpful information that people could bring to the meetings include their driver’s license, social security number, income verification, current lease agreement (if applicable), recent two years income tax return, and recent two months bank statements.”
For any information regarding the application process people can contact Catoosa Habitat at 706-861-5858 or email them at habitat1@catt.com