Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County held a groundbreaking ceremony for two new homes in Claypool on Monday, March 20. From left are Brian Smith, Ben Stage, new homeowner Tracy Campbell and her son Kane, new homeowner Courtney Dickson and her daughter Chloe Pugh, Reverend Rob Nelson and Habitat Project Manager Dennis Judy.

Text and Photos
By Caleigh Byrer
InkFreeNews

CLAYPOOL — Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County held a groundbreaking ceremony for two new homes in Claypool on Monday, March 20.

The two homes will be neighboring properties located at 409 S. Graceland Ave., Claypool, which were donated to Habitat for Humanity by the town of Claypool. The homes will be going to Tracy Campbell and her son Kane, and Courtney Dickson and her daughter Chloe.

Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Ben Logan is shown speaking at the construction site where the new homes will be built, expressing the organization’s excitement for this project to commence.

Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Ben Logan expressed immense gratitude for the donation of property and noted that this is the first time they have built two homes in a year, so it is an exciting time for the families and the organization.

Courtney and her daughter have been staying with relatives as housing was difficult to come by. “I tried looking for a house in 2020, but the housing market is insane,” she said. “I was quoted $1300 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment.”

Upon their acceptance into the home-ownership program, the mother and daughter were excited by the prospect of having their own space.

Tracy and her son Kane described their acceptance into the home-ownership program as a blessing, as they are currently living in less than desirable conditions. “I want a safe place where I don’t have to worry about mold, air quality, or our health,” Tracy said, which is precisely what Habitat for Humanity plans to give her.

Tracy, Courtney and their children have worked with Habitat for Humanity in the past. Logan stated, “it has been great to see them pour into this organization but also to have the chance for this organization to pour back out into them.”

Habitat plans to have the homes built and prepared for the families to move in before 2024.

To find more information on the organization and the families they are assisting or to become a sponsor or volunteer, visit the organization website.