Pacific has taken the LEED in sustainable housing in King County.
Two newly constructed, environmentally friendly houses stood tall in the sunshine last Saturday as city officials, builders, volunteers and friends welcomed the “green” homes to the neighborhood.
“Personally, I think they are some of the most beautiful homes in Pacific,” said Mayor Richard Hildreth. “I know they are the most energy efficient. These are the first two (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified homes in King County that were built by Habitat for Humanity. … I’ve had a number of people comment on how great these homes look and how much they have added to the community.”
One of the homes – a two-story, 1,373-square-foot model off Pacific Avenue – was dedicated to the Jarbah family in last weekend’s ceremony.
“I couldn’t be happier,” said Joseph Jarbah, who brought his wife, Florence, and four children to Seattle to escape war-torn Africa and begin a new life. “This means so much to me and my family.”
The Pacific projects were made possible through Habitat for Humanity of Seattle/South King County – a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing organization that works in partnership with volunteers and supporters to build decent, affordable homes for needy families.
Since 1986, Habitat for Humanity’s local affiliate has built simple, efficient housing in partnership with low-income families.
Under the program’s guidelines, homeowners invest 250-500 “sweat equity” hours to construct their house, thus reducing costs, increasing pride of ownership and teaching home maintenance skills.
Families are selected regardless of race, religion or national origin, but on three criteria: demonstrated financial need; willingness to partner with Habitat for Humanity; and ability to repay a no-profit, no-interest mortgage.
About 90 percent of the project was supported by volunteer labor and donated supplies under the Habitat’s supervision. The Valley Regional Fire Authority and Local 1352 were among the volunteer builders in the project at the Pacific lot.
St. Barbara Catholic Church of Black Diamond was among the generous sponsors of the build.
The second completed home on Pacific Avenue soon will be occupied by a qualified family.
The project reflects Pacific’s pride, Hildreth said, of neighbor helping neighbor.
“It’s the one thing I am proud of,” Hildreth said.
Habitat for Humanity plans to build nine more single-family units on a site it purchased at Meagan’s Meadow at Skinner Road and 1st Avenue East, beginning this summer. The first of the nine homes will be an “Apostle Build” – 12 congregations joining together to fund and build the home. Eight Federal Way churches are leading the effort.
“We’re totally pushing the envelope in terms of sustainable quality – that’s the thing we’re really proud of,” said Marty Kooistra, chief executive officer for Habitat for Humanity of Seattle/South King County. “Some people tend to think of Habitat as a charity, but we believe it’s a development program. We believe we can build sustainable housing and be a leader in that.”
The new home is a blessing to the Jarbah family. Through Habitat for Humanity, housing became possible.
“We’re very happy,” said Joseph Jarbah, who earned a degree in mechnical engineer at nearby Bates Technical College and works for the Kent School District. “I cannot thank them enough.”
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You can help
For those willing to help on the latest Pacific build, contact Diane Gallegos (dgallegos@seattle-habitat.org, 206-292-5240, ext. 105), or Jaye Zern at 253-941-3000. To learn more, visit www.seattle-habitat.org.
