The Rhonda Hart House - The Best Kind of Home

Our most inspiring and innovative home tour of the year isn't an architectural masterpiece. It's not a luxury residence. It's not full of plasma TVs, integrated lighting systems or high-tech kitchens. It doesn't even have a jetted tub or granite countertops.

This house is the very first home for two homeless mothers and their children - made possible by the partnership of HomeAid Michigan, Pulte Homes, MASCO Corporation and Grace Centers of Hope. This home will change lives, inspire hope and give children a chance for a future. This is the very best kind of house because today, for the first time, two families are able to call it home.
Yesterday we had the honor and privilege to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Rhonda Hart House - the first project in Michigan for the national HomeAid organization. Located on Seneca Street in Pontiac, the home is one of nine homes that Grace Centers of Hope has renovated or rebuilt in recent years through it's "Little Grace Village" initiative to support graduates of its Life Skills Program and to provide homes for the homeless.

Pulte Homes, MASCO Corporation and 35 local and national building industry partners united with Grace Centers of Hope to build this home for two formerly homeless families. Not only was this home constructed at more than 50% below cost, enabling Grace Centers of Hope to purchase the home for under $100,000, but the home was completed in only 77 working days. At 2,360 total square feet the duplex contains two residences; each with three bedrooms, one bath and plenty of living and working spaces for active families.

There wasn't a dry eye yesterday at the ceremony as builders, manufacturers, contractors and media watched two families tour their brand new home. We walked away inspired, motivated and thankful that these organizations and corporations came together in these tough economic times to build a dream for two families. Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to Grace Centers of Hope, HomeAid Michigan, Pulte Homes, MASCO Corporation, GE, CertainTeed and all of the local building industry partners that made the Rhonda Hart House possible.

To donate or become a partner in this program in Michigan or in your own state, contact HomeAidMichigan or the national HomeAid organization.

Nearly 51% of Michigan's 80,000 homeless citizens are adults or children in families. Each year, Grace Centers of Hope in Pontiac provides 55,000 nights of shelter, 127,000 meals and on-site child care and counseling for Michigan families in need. To volunteer or donate, contact Grace Centers of Hope.