Shedding love on a housing mission

For years, Habitat for Humanity has helped place families in forever homes. Through the collective efforts of the globally recognized nonprofit, local businesses and kind-hearted volunteers, Habitat for Humanity facilitates the building and gifting of affordable homes to those in need, known as "partner families." While much of the mission is funded by generous donations and sales from the official resale stores, building homes is an expensive business, especially with ever-growing material costs. That's why the local chapter came up with a unique way to help fundraise. For the greater part of a decade, Firelands Habitat for Humanity and its subgroup known as the Women's Build has constructed and raffled off a fun and functional shed, to be used more so as a mini clubhouse by the winner. "We do several other fundraisers but this is our biggest one," said Women's Build representative Dana Riley. "This also helps get the message out about Habitat (for Humanity) and the ReStore. You'd be surprised how many people know about Habitat but don't know there's one local." The idea is similar to that of a "she shed," but with a more gender neutral concept, so it can appeal to anyone. The sheds are constructed by the Women's Build with the help of other volunteers and partner families. They have varied in sizes over the years but usually include a functional porch and come with the inside completely decorated. This theme of this year's shed is patriotic, with lots of red, whites and blues. Shed raffle tickets are 1 for $5, 3 for $10 or 6 for $20 and go on sale every spring. They can be purchased at the Habitat ReStore, located at 7602 Milan Road in Sandusky, or at various community events where Women's Build members and partner families will be set up, showing off the shed and sharing information on everything that is Habitat for Humanity. "Over the years, this has helped increase our presence in the community. It helps the community get to know the partner families so they know who we're doing this for and why we're doing this," she said. "It's easy to just hand out a piece of paper and say, 'Hey here's a flier' but when you get something that's personal, you're more likely to donate or get involved." Anyone can purchase shed raffle tickets, though if underage, a parent or guardian must give prior approval. The lucky recipient of the clubhouse for a cause will be announced on the final day of the Milan Melon Fest, which takes place Labor Day weekend and don't have to be present to win. For more information on Habitat for Humanity, visit habitat.org.