The legacy of Habitat for Humanity and the United Church of Christ goes back a long way.  Forty years ago, Habitat built their first house in St Louis.  It was about that time that our denomination got involved. Habitat has put homeowners In 430 homes in the four decades since, and First Church has been providing work crews for just that long.  

Thirty-one homes were turned over to new owners last year. The goal for 2025 is forty! Habitat doesn’t serve the very poorest people, rather their clientele are families who have established somewhat of a foothold, but haven’t been able to stretch to home ownership. In addition to being able to pay a mortgage, they need to be willing to invest many weekends of “sweat equity” in the building or rehab of their home. Habitat screens locations for new homes with great care, making sure that they are in neighborhoods that are either thriving or showing promise of flourishing.  

FCCWG’s  Habitat Workday is Saturday, October 11th.  In the past few years, we have supplied 5 workers, combining with another church.  This year we are asked to supply 10! It will be a full day, starting at 7:30 AM and wrapping up at 3:00 PM.  You will be working alongside the future homeowner.  Ask anyone who’s participated in the past, and they will tell you it’s a very rewarding experience.  Watch for a signup sheet in the office.  

You don’t have to lift a hammer to support Habitat.  The St Louis area UCC has a pair of  fundraisers.  The first is the AUCCtion for Humanity.  This is an online auction that runs through March 9.  There’s a great selection of gift cards and services.  Scan the QR code below to see the offerings.  

You can also join us for a ST. PAT’S DINNER on Saturday March 8th, from 4:00 to 7:00pm at Samuel UCC (320 N Forsyth Blvd, in Clayton).  This is great meal of hand-carved corned beef with all the fixings.  The desserts are spectacular!  Look for Phil Shoulberg, this Sunday, March 2, to get your $20 tickets.