OCCH was a proud sponsor of the The Greater Columbus Habitat for Humanity build held in February at the construction site of a new home being built for a family moving into the Franklinton area. OCCH has been an important partner with Habitat for Humanity-Greater Columbus for many years, sponsoring several habitat builds in the local Columbus area. Many staff members have participated in these builds as construction volunteers and assistants.

This home, on Steven Avenue in Columbus’ west side, will be owned by a single father of three who emigrated from West Africa in 1998.

The Greater Columbus Habitat for Humanity (HFHGC) was established in 1987 as an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. Since inception, they have built over 200 houses throughout Greater Columbus and Franklin County. HFHGC works with local communities to build affordable homes and empower families who lack adequate shelter. The Greater Columbus Habitat for Humanity provides families a chance to experience the American dream of homeownership.

The Franklinton neighborhood, west of downtown Columbus, is commonly referred to as “The Bottoms” since much of the land lies below the levels of the Scioto and Olentangy rivers. Since the area is prone to flooding, the Army Corps of Engineers completed construction of a seven-and-a-quarter-mile protective floodwall in 2004. Franklinton has experienced a burst of economic development since the completion of the floodwall. This growth has included commercial developments, a new firehouse and two new schools as well as several residential projects, including this habitat home constructed among many single family homes in this established neighborhood.

Also sponsoring this build were Northwest Adopt A House Partnership (an association of churches from upper Arlington and Grandview that have been building Habitat homes for more than 15 years) and Cobalt/Integralink.