News Summary
The Oxford community is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Fuller Center for Housing, marking their ongoing commitment to affordable housing. On February 3, 2025, the foundation for a new home was laid, exemplifying the organization’s mission to help local families achieve homeownership. This year, the new home will be awarded to a local first responder, highlighting the community’s appreciation for their service. Volunteers will unite in April for an intensive build week, demonstrating the spirit of collaboration and dedication to housing solutions.
Oxford Community Gathers to Celebrate 20 Years of Affordable Housing
Oxford is buzzing with excitement as the Fuller Center for Housing kicks off a thrilling milestone—its 20th anniversary of providing affordable housing to locals. On the morning of February 3, 2025, the foundation for a brand new home was poured, signaling the start of another inspiring project aimed at changing lives for the better.
From Habitat for Humanity to Fuller Center for Housing
With a strong legacy that dates back to 1987, the Oxford chapter of the Fuller Center has transitioned from being a part of Habitat for Humanity in 2022, continuing the mission established by founders Millard and Linda Fuller. These pioneers left Habitat to create something unique, with a renewed commitment to making homeownership within reach for everyone, especially those who need it the most.
A Legacy Build to Honor Commitment
The current home being constructed at 2027 Brandywine Drive in the Brittany Woods subdivision is more than just another house; it is designated as a “Legacy Build.” This special title pays tribute to the Fullers’ unwavering dedication to ensuring that affordable housing remains a possibility for families in need.
Volunteers Unite for an Intensive Build Week
Excitement is also building as volunteers from all corners of the country prepare to arrive in Oxford for an intensive build week scheduled for April 13-19. During this action-packed week, dedicated individuals will roll up their sleeves and work together to help bring this dream home to life. The aim is to have the construction nearly completed by the end of the week, showcasing the power of community spirit and teamwork.
Helping Families Stand on Their Own Two Feet
Just as important as building new homes is the Fuller Center’s commitment to repairing homes that are deteriorating and in urgent need of attention. Prioritizing based on urgency, the organization is determined to help families stay in their homes, ensuring that nobody’s housing situation becomes untenable.
Granting a New Home to a Local First Responder
In a particularly touching announcement, the organization has revealed that the new home will be awarded to a first responder who is actively seeking affordable housing. This decision underscores the community’s appreciation for those who serve and protect, ensuring they also have a safe and stable place to call home.
Criteria for a New Family
The process of selecting the family who will receive this new home involves meeting three essential criteria: they must demonstrate financial need, show a willingness to contribute “sweat equity” towards their home, and have the ability to sustain a mortgage. This approach not only ensures deserving families are chosen but also promotes a sense of ownership and pride in their new abode.
Exciting Financing Options
Chosen families will receive a fantastic deal: a 30-year, zero-interest mortgage, with payments that are even lower than the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Oxford. This makes achieving homeownership more accessible and achievable for families in the area. The Fuller Center hopes to finalize the selected family by mid-February, creating an inspiring story that will surely resonate throughout the community.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
The Fuller Center for Housing operates on a solid foundation built with the help of local contributions and a sprinkle of occasional grants, operating entirely without governmental funding. With over 100 U.S. chapters and nearly two dozen international affiliates, this organization has made a significant impact worldwide.
As part of its ongoing efforts, the Oxford chapter will host its annual conference on May 16-17 at the Oxford University United Methodist Church. This gathering is expected to attract around 150 volunteers and leaders from across the country, likely drawing in participants from international locations too. This conference is a fantastic opportunity to share ideas, strategies, and successes in their mission to provide housing for all.
Finding Joy in Volunteering
The president of the Oxford chapter, who has been a dedicated volunteer since 2019, believes in the joy of giving back through this organization. After a 33-year academic career at the University of Mississippi, volunteering with the Fuller Center has been a fulfilling way to connect with wonderful people and make a real difference in the lives of others.
As the community gears up to celebrate this milestone and gain momentum for upcoming projects, the excitement in Oxford is palpable. There’s no doubt that with the continued support and dedication of its residents, the Fuller Center for Housing will remain a beacon of hope for many families seeking affordable housing.
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Additional Resources
- Oxford Eagle: Fuller Center for Housing Building Home
- Wikipedia: Affordable housing
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