Our church is honored to support another Habitat for Humanity Faith Build home – our fourth in 5 years! Construction on the latest Faith Build home, and the first home in the new King’s Cross Place, will began in December. UPC has provided funds toward building costs and will have work days and other opportunities to contribute. 

Karlee, the 2026 future Faith Build homeowner, has walked a powerful road of recovery and redemption; from addiction and hardship to hope and healing. Today, she is a devoted mom to her daughter, Kaylea, a mentor to other women in recovery, and a future law student. Karlee is determined to give her daughter the stable home they both deserve.

Habitat for Humanity partners with people in their own community to help build or improve a place for someone to call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage.

Habitat for Humanity just celebrated its 30th year in Manatee County and has completed 176 homes. They build multiple houses a year at an average cost of $175,000 not including land, infrastructure, etc. Funding comes from a variety of city and county sources as well as corporate sponsors and community groups. Current building practices incorporate as many green/cost-efficient initiatives as possible to help keep the homeowner’s expenses down and increase their quality of life.

Potential homeowners go through a rigorous screening process. Their “down payment” includes 500 hours of sweat equity (job site building hours) and classes on home maintenance and finance. Upon completion of the home, the homeowner assumes an interest free 30-year mortgage which averages $800-$1000 per month including insurance and property taxes.

UPC is blessed to help provide a forever home for Karlee and Kaylea. For Karlee, home ownership through Manatee County Habitat for Humanity’s Faith Build means more than just a roof over their heads. It represents redemption, stability, and the fulfillment of God’s promise – a safe place where she and Kaylea can grow, learn, and thrive. Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to be a part of Kaylee’s journey in 2026.