Work on the Winneshiek County Habitat for Humanity house is nearing completion

The end is in sight for the Winneshiek County Habitat for Humanity house located in Hesper.

According to WCHFH board president Ken Vande Berg, the organization's latest housing project - the conversion of the former Hesper Friends Church into a single-family home - has made steady progress since work began on it in September 2016. "The main floor is mudded, dry walled, and partly painted. We still need to install cabinetry and flooring, finish the woodwork, and do some exterior and basement work."

Holly Dahl and her two daughters, Deanna, a junior at Mabel-Canton High School, and Savannah, a third grader at North Winneshiek Elementary School are scheduled to move into the house sometime this month. Dahl has worked full time at DECO Products in Decorah for more than 18 years.

Founded in 1992, WCHFH has built 30 homes throughout Winneshiek County to date. The organization works in partnership with low-income working families to help them secure decent, affordable housing. WCHFH houses are sold to partner families at no profit and with a 25-year, interest-free mortgage. Each family must make regular mortgage payments and contribute at least 150 hours of "sweat equity" per adult family member to its home and other WCHFH projects.

Work days at the Hesper site are currently scheduled for Tuesdays and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with workers of all skill levels welcome. Contact Gus Johnson at wchfh1@gmail.com or (563) 382-1802 with questions.

For more information on WCHFH and/or the Hesper project, visit www.winneshiekhabitat.org.