Habitat for Humanity of Martha’s Vineyard held a ground-breaking ceremony on Saturday, August 9, for the sixth house the organization has built on the Island. Thirty people gathered at the build site on 11th street in Edgartown to mark the event.

The town of Edgartown donated the land upon which the home will be built and the property was transferred to the Island Housing Trust. The price of the house is based on income level, not the real estate market, and no interest is charged on the mortgage. Monthly payments go into an account for Habitat for Humanity to build more houses, so the homeowners will not only have affordable housing but also know that they are helping future homeowners.

Habitat for Humanity of Martha’s Vineyard serves Island residents earning 80 per cent and below the median income of Martha’s Vineyard. These Islanders make up the vast majority of those most in need of decent, permanent housing here on the Island. The organization does not receive funding from the international organization because the homes on the Island are built with funds from the Island for the people of the Island. It is truly a homegrown, community effort.

To donate time, money, talent or materials and get involved with helping your Island neighbors, please call the office at 508-696-4646 or visit habitatmv.org.