Inspired by the deeds of Pope Francis, an anonymous donor has donated $60,000 towards a new Habitat home that will be built in partnership with the Toomey family. The donor is challenging the community to contribute funds towards the remaining $40,000 necessary to buy the “bricks and sticks” for the home. Community members are also encouraged to volunteer and achieve a true community partnership for the Pope Francis House. Three hundred to four hundred volunteers will be needed to help build from August to December. Although the Catholic community will be a primary resource for help, all faiths are welcome to contribute to the build.

The Toomey family will partner in building their Pope Francis-inspired home and experience the valuable life lessons that come with the Habitat process. “You have to work hard for the things you want out of life. Never give up on your hopes and dreams but work every day to achieve them!” said the Toomey family.

The purpose of this house is threefold:

  • To honor Pope Francis’ commitment to social justice and reinvigorating the Catholic Church
  • To provide a unifying, celebratory opportunity for both Catholic and non-Catholic volunteers to work together towards a common goal (As Pope Francis says, “Work confers dignity”)
  • To further Habitat’s mission of building and preserving homes

A Wall-Raising ceremony kicking off the build will be held on Saturday, August 8 at 8:00 a.m. at 6602 Avondale Road, Fort Collins, 80525 in Ridgewood Hills Neighborhood. Those interested in getting involved and or volunteering are encouraged to attend. For more information contact Raquel Martinez at (970) 488-2610 or [email protected]. #PopeFrancisHouse

Learn more about Fort Collins Habitat for Humanity at www.FortCollinsHabitat.org.

Fort Collins Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization operated on Christian principles that seek to put God’s love into action by building homes, communities and hope. Fort Collins Habitat for Humanity is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing in the Fort Collins area and worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.  Habitat for Humanity was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety, and that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all. www.FortCollinsHabitat.org.