Letter from the CEO

January 2009 Letter

Dear Friends,

As we begin 2009, I write to you with a sense of pride and delight for what Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast has accomplished since it began in January 2007. The past two years presented challenges and hurdles that have been met with equal determination and success. In those two years, our partner families, volunteers, staff and donors have worked tirelessly to complete nearly 300 homes for working families.

Often, I am asked to speak about the recovery efforts and to share success stories with groups from around the country. I am always eager to highlight the families we have served and new innovative partnerships we have formed-- but I am more compelled to talk about why it remains necessary that we move forward with urgency, focus and discipline.

A few weeks ago, I met a husband and wife living in Moss Point with their three children. Their temporary home was scheduled to be reclaimed in a matter of weeks. He worked the night-shift at a shipyard so he could care for the children while his wife completed her nursing degree. Because Habitat was able to offer them the opportunity for homeownership, they will move out of their tiny, two bedroom MEMA cottage and into a new home where they can live and grow together.

This story ends happily, but for thousands more, affordable housing options are quickly fading. As we continue to address the needs in our community, it is my hope that you who have visited this region, contributed your time or money will recognize that only through strong partnerships & urgent action will we ensure all families on the Mississippi Coast have the bright, prosperous future they deserve.

Chris Monforton, CEO

CEO Chris Monforton