15 Winnipeg families welcomed into new homes by Habitat for Humanity

Fifteen families were welcomed into their new homes in the new Pandora Avenue West development as part of an ambitious project from Habitat for Humanity.

As one door closes, opportunity knocks for 15 families and dozens more in the coming future, as they got to move into the largest and most ambitious project Habitat Manitoba has ever embarked upon.

These homes not only provide stability and security, but it also gives the new homeowners the ability to lay the foundation of their new lives by hand.

“Many people think we give houses away, but we don’t, we partner with a family and create a path for them to work hard to have their own house, and the first part of that is 500 hours of labour before they take ownership of their home,” explained Jamie Hall, the CEO of Habitat for Humanity Manitoba.

Once the development is complete, approximately 275 people, including 175 children will be moved in, including Rosemary Ellis and her four children. Ellis spoke about her journey from being homeless as a teenager to now owning a home of her own

“Today is more than just a celebration of houses built, it is a celebration of dreams realized, futures secured, and lived forever changed,” she explained.

This development comes in the midst of a housing shortage here in Winnipeg, with Mayor Scott Gillingham, hinting at future bylaws aimed at helping nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity, build more homes faster, including a new concierge service.

“Rather than having to talk to 4, 5 or 10 different departments you can make one call to the concierge, and we will assist you,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham.

Once the development is completed in 2026, it will house an addition 40 families. Habitat for Humanity has also started work on building housing for 20 more families in the Concordia area.