craigdailypress.com

There's a common assessment among Moffat County Habitat for Humanity members regarding the organization's first project home at 745 Yampa Ave.

It looks like a house.

"We've come a long way," group treasurer Vicki Burns said. "It looks like an actual house now. It's so cool. We're on course and heading in the right direction."

That's the same assessment of Bob Wood, also a Habitat for Humanity board member.

"It's just incredible," he said. "It's really moving along fast. Each time you drive by, it looks better and better. ... The big thing we need now is money to finish the project."

In recent weeks, group members and volunteers have added trusses, a roof and walls to the once dilapidated home. Members said the home is closed off and prepared for work to take place inside during winter.

Upon completion, the home will span 1,788 square feet and include four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, a dining room, a laundry room and a full kitchen. The home has been awarded to the Burkett family of Craig.

Burns said the group hopes to be done with the house by late February or early March.

But, as Wood pointed out, finances remain an obstacle.

Earlier this month, Habitat for Humanity began a fundraising drive to raise about $20,000. Unexpected costs, such as a $17,000 bill for asbestos removal, significantly cut into the group's finances.

The group has about $10,000 on hand. It needs $30,000 to pay for materials to finish the home.

Burns said residents and businesses have donated $2,000 so far. She expects the group to have little trouble raising the remaining $18,000.

"Most of our members strongly believe in faith," she said. "We firmly believe we will meet our goal. I don't think $20,000 is unrealistic."

One thing the Habitat group isn't running short on is volunteer help, Burns said.

"There are a lot of people out there who are ready and willing," she said. "People that really just want to work and help us make a difference."

Habitat for Humanity members are taking this week off for the holiday and are scheduled to resume work next week. They have not yet scheduled the next volunteer workday.

Until then, the group is focusing on its capital fundraising campaign.

"I believe good things happen to good people who make things happen," Burns said. "We're making something good happen with that house."

Donation boxes are located throughout town, and checks may also be deposited into the boxes. Checks should be made out to the Moffat County chapter of Routt County Habitat for Humanity.

Checks may also be mailed to the group at P.O. Box 487, Craig CO, 81625.

Anyone interested in donating money or volunteering for Habitat for Humanity should call President Marilyn Bouldin at 824-5459.