NRI Program

Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Harrisburg Area has been selected as one of 163 affiliates nationwide to participate in Habitat for Humanity International’s initial phase of its Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative. That effort will focus on improving housing conditions while partnering with other community organizations to provide services that enhance the overall quality of life across struggling neighborhoods.

“We are please and honored to be selected to be one of the affiliates to kick off this program,” said Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Eve Wachhaus. “With the work we are already doing here in Harrisburg with our home repair program, home rehabilitations and our collaborations with other community organizations, we will help Habitat for Humanity International teach other Habitat affiliates strategies to help families.”

As part of the first phase, the local Habitat for Humanity will receive training and guidance on how to revitalize communities through a variety of housing solutions and community development efforts.

In 2009, Habitat for Humanity International announced the formal launch of the Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative. The initiative encourages affiliates to serve more families and to create more resilient and sustainable communities by offering a variety of services in addition to new house construction.

Through the initiative, Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Harrisburg Area will work with other community organizations to determine the projects that will be carried out locally. Habitat services may include new house construction, rehabilitation of vacant and foreclosed properties, house repairs for low-income homeowners, and weatherization to make houses more energy-efficient and affordable.

“If we are going to help families thrive in healthy neighborhoods, we have to direct some significant efforts into healing America’s troubled communities,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “These affiliates will work together to develop strategies and create strong networks that can address individual neighborhood issues.”

Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Harrisburg Area is an ecumenical ministry that welcomes all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its inception in 1986, the Harrisburg area affiliate has built nearly 60 houses, built 87 homes internationally and completed over 150 Home Repairs by providing simple, decent and affordable shelter with families in need. For more information, visit www.harrisburghabitat.org.