It’s amazing when you can be part of the magic of winter in Eagle County — fresh snow sparkling in the sun and glittering evenings. Many in the community, though, are the behind-the-scenes party makers, who help build the revelry but quietly struggle every day. As winter ramps up and tourists flock to Eagle County, housing becomes even more scarce, expensive and overcrowded; the cost to heat a home is an added burden.
This is a hard time of year. We hear you. Building a life in the Vail Valley takes a special kind of persistence and optimism. Habitat Vail Valley is here to cultivate community through connection. We have always focused on being a resource. With the advent of our Building Futures program almost three years ago, we have amplified our efforts and are helping people improve their lives right now.
We know of two families — nine people — forced to share a one-bedroom apartment. Adults in bunkbeds for $700 a month. Houses that rent for $6000 that seem like a ‘good deal.’ We’re working so everyone has hope and knows how to connect with resources.
We’re learning that many people don’t know that our work encompasses more than building homeownership. We’re connecting services so a future homeowner learns how to start paying off debt, so they are one step closer to purchasing a home. We’ve connected landlords with new tenants. We’ve even helped families escape food insecurity by connecting them with the local food banks.
The key is connection. Many of us see the problems that the lack of safe housing enhances and we want to be part of the solution.
Almost three years ago we launched Building Futures, an outreach and resource program that connects people — not just Habitat homeowners — with support services to provide a roadmap for long-term solutions and success. Through this work, we are not only helping individuals, we are supporting the whole community.
The Building Futures team meets people where they are and helps them create a roadmap for success. The supports are in place in Eagle County, but oftentimes those who need the help need to learn how to access it. We want to connect, talk and meet with anyone in need.
We also want to share some easy to access resources. The Salvation Army relocated to EagleVail. Thanksgiving food baskets are available. The organization focuses on helping with rental assistance. The Community Market has two locations, one in Edwards and one in Gypsum. The market is stocked with healthy, yummy food. Mountain Strong provides immigration assistance.
Habitat is your resource. Let’s connect — together we can reduce the greatest stressors, giving people the skills to shine. When basic needs are addressed, families are more likely to thrive and the community will be strengthened. Now that’s something to be thankful for.
Learn More about Building Futures:
- Habitat for Humanity Admin Office, 455 Nottingham Ranch Road, Avon. Monday-Wednesday, 9-5
- Habitat ReStore Vail Valley, 250 Lindbergh Drive, Gypsum. Thursday – Friday, 10-6.
- Bilingual
- 748.6718 ext. 133
