Marina
Employees from Hill’s Pet Nutrition stepped away from their regular duties on Thursday to contribute to a Habitat for Humanity build on La Salle Street in Emporia. Their efforts are part of the Hill’s Day of Caring, an initiative aimed at fostering community involvement among staff members.
The volunteers are scheduled to be on-site from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Thursday and Friday, dedicating their time and skills to this meaningful project.
Adjusting Plans Due to Weather
Originally, the plan was for volunteers to paint the exterior of the home, but recent weather conditions in Emporia prompted a change.
Instead, the Hill’s team is now working on finishing interior framing and installing nailers for sheetrock, while exterior painting will be completed when weather conditions improve.
Habitat’s Affordable Housing Program
The home is part of the Habitat for Humanity Affordable Housing Program, which gives low-income families the chance to buy a home through a 30-year mortgage with 0% interest.
Prospective homeowners must complete a comprehensive application process and contribute 300 hours of “sweat equity” by actively participating in the construction of their future home.
As Eric Kirby, Executive Director of Emporia Area Habitat for Humanity, emphasized:
“We don’t just pick somebody and give them a free house — they’ve earned it by the time it’s time to pay.”
Fast-Tracked Construction Progress
The property for the home was purchased in February, with the foundation pad installed shortly after. Construction officially began in May, marking one of the fastest timelines in the organization’s history.
Kirby stated:
“It probably was the quickest time frame that we’ve ever had from when we got an empty lot to when we started construction.”
He aims to have the house completed by December, allowing the new homeowner to move in before year’s end.
The Hill’s Pet Nutrition volunteer team is playing a vital role in helping Emporia families achieve homeownership through Habitat for Humanity’s Affordable Housing Program.
Despite weather-related changes to their plans, their efforts in construction and support highlight the power of community partnerships and corporate social responsibility.
With rapid progress on this build, a new homeowner could be moving in as early as December, symbolizing hope, stability, and the success of community collaboration.