TEMPLE TERRACE - A trail of footprints could be seen in the dirt as individuals headed towards the construction site with turquoise hammers, purple hard hats and pink T-shirts.
Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County held its second annual Women Build on Apr. 7. More than 150 women volunteers started work on a home for Tangerla Burton, a single mother, and her four sons Mark, Jermaine, Jaiden and Jayceon.
During a seven-week period that ends on May 26, the women will erect trusses, hammer nails and unite to help one of their own.
Already, the women raised more than $85,000 to help cover the construction cost. To add, a team of 15 from Wellcare Health Plans assisted with placing trusses for the roof on the first day of this Women Build project.
The Burtons endured some hardships with their living conditions. The old structured three-bedroom apartment in which they live faces numerous unaddressed maintenance issues, including problems with plumbing, air conditioning and faulty electrical concerns.
Last year Burton applied to the Habitat Homeownership Program, which she heard about through a coworker. Since the Burtons got selected this year they will receive a 1,500 square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bath home replete with a one-car garage.
Burton never dreamed that she would be accepted into the program.
"I made a promise to myself that when I reached the age of 45 I will obtain a home for my family and myself," Burton said. "I am turning 43 this month and I feel excited."
In order for applicants to become eligible, they must meet specific requirements such as having worked or lived in Hillsborough County for one year and more. Applicants also have to contribute sweat equity hours, including volunteering with Habitat at the Habitat ReStore, building homes or other events. Burton will help the volunteers finish her home as she reaches 300 sweat equity hours. She will also pay an affordable mortgage as well.
In addition to that, Habitat searched for a piece of land and found that the city of Temple Terrace owned it. The organization approached Mayor Mel Jurado and she immediately backed the effort.
Habit for Humanity of Hillsborough County CEO Tina Swain expressed her gratitude about Jurado's decision.
"We purchased the land from the city of Temple Terrace and it was a big part of making Women Build at this location," Swain aid.
Jurado mentioned that from a city perspective they know the detailed screenings all Habitat families undergo. This then led to the approval of the land sale. Her role as mayor throughout the process will involve thanking the many volunteer teams that will come to Jurado's city over the next several weeks.
She also plans to be onsite during as many build dates as possible
"The Women Build initiative is a positive impact for every single woman that steps onto the job site," Jurado said.
Women from various backgrounds have joined together since 1991 to participate in Women Build events at Habitat for Humanity affiliate locations throughout the United States. It offers a hands-on opportunity for women as they address the low-income housing needs in their communities by assisting families with stability, building strength and independence through affordable homeownership. In addition, it can be considered a call to action for women looking to better their community and spread awareness to those families who experience challenges with not being able to afford housing.
"All in all we look forward to welcoming more families and beautifying the community," Jurado said.
For more information, visit habitathillsborough.org.