Ravenna – Habitat for Humanity of Portage County’s work to provide affordable housing has helped Habitat for Humanity International rank as the sixth largest homebuilder on Builder magazine’s top 100 list. With 6,032 closings in 2010, this is the second time Habitat for Humanity has placed in the top ten. “Our placement on the Builder 100 list is a testament to what can be accomplished when people work together,” said Larry Gluth, senior vice president of U.S. and Canada for Habitat for Humanity International. “So many families in the United States and around the world face an incredible need for affordable housing, and this need only increases during challenging economic times. Habitat works every day to help these families, and we are grateful for the generosity of our donors, volunteers and advocates who have joined our efforts to help families obtain safe, decent and affordable homes and to strengthen communities.” In 2010, Habitat of Portage helped more than 3 families obtain affordable housing and plans to continue working with volunteers, local businesses and churches to provide affordable housing in Atwater and Ravenna by the end of this year. Since 1988, the affiliate has built or renovated more than 56 homes. “We are thrilled that our work to provide affordable housing has contributed to Habitat’s ranking as the sixth largest builder in the United States,” said Brian Reitz, Executive Director at Habitat of Portage County. “We are proud to help families obtain affordable housing, and we thank our supporters for their commitment to helping families in need.” The Builder 100 list is an annual compilation of the largest homebuilders in the country. In 2009, Habitat for Humanity ranked eighth on the list with 5,294 closings, marking the first time the organization made it to the top 10. Habitat for Humanity of Portage County is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian ministry serving Portage County by working with qualified persons with housing needs to help them create a better community in which to live and work. Habitat welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. For more information, or to donate or volunteer, call 330.296.2880. www.habitatofportage.org
