Habitat for Humanity projects are nothing new for Yorkton, but a unique build was launched last week with a barbecue at Western Financial City Park. The "Yorkton Faith Build," scheduled to begin in 2014 is the first of its kind in Saskatchewan.
The idea of a coalition of churches partnering with Habitat for Humanity, the Province and the City of Yorkton to build a home for a deserving family has been part of Habitat's strategic plan for three years.
"We've been promoting the idea for the last number of years, trying to get the involvement of churches," said Des Klingspon, pastor at Prairie Harvest Christian Life Centre and co-chair of Habitat Yorkton's Faith Relations Committee. "It's taken a bit of time for the community and the churches to see the value in this."
The committee's persistence came to fruition September 12 when representatives of 13 area churches, Habitat supporters and provincial and city officials braved strong winds and cool temperatures to officially announce the project.
"It's fairly common in the States, but as far as here goes, it's never been done," Klingspon said.
And although more than a dozen churches have already signed up, he said there is always room for more.
"We really want to invite other churches in Yorkton and surrounding area to participate," he said. "It's not closed by any means. We really welcome the opportunity to work together as a faith community and make some history in Saskatchewan."
Habitat for Humanity Yorkton is currently reviewing applications to choose a recipient family for the home. Homeowners are chosen on three criteria: their level of need, their willingness to become partners in the program and; their ability to repay a non-profit, interest-free loan.
Land for the build will be provided by the City of Yorkton. Klingspon said they are close to making an announcement about the location of project.
Participating Churches
St Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church
Parkland Community Church
First Baptist Church
Holy Trinity Anglican Church
Seventh Day Adventist Church
Prairie Harvest Christian Life Centre
Yorkton Victory Church
Christ the Lord of Mercy Canadian Orthodox Church
Yorkton Alliance Church
Ebenezer Baptist Church
St. Andrews United Church
St. Mark's Orthodox Church
Yorkton Ministerial Association
