Mitchell Regional Habitat for Humanity is one of 14 groups selected to receive a matching grant from State Farm®. Mitchell Habitat has been awarded $5,000 and must raise a matching amount through a partnership with a local youth organization. Several student groups from MCTEA leapt at the opportunity to support Mitchell Habitat’s efforts to increase safe, decent, and affordable housing in the Mitchell area. These groups include Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA); National FFA Organization; Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA); Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA); and SkillsUSA.
The student groups will be holding a fundraiser on May 1st called Sleeping Quarters – an event where they will be spending a night in a cardboard box to raise awareness and funds for safe, decent, and affordable housing in the Mitchell Area.
“Here in Mitchell we don’t appear to have much of a homeless problem,” said Anessa Klumb, Executive Director for Mitchell Habitat. “But we do have homeless – they’re just not out on the streets. They’re on a friend’s couch or staying with a family member. One of the most common challenges facing people in need of shelter is the high cost of housing. In Mitchell, 40% of renters are cost burdened, meaning they’re paying more than 30% of their income for housing. We are thankful for the partnership of these teenagers who are willing to be uncomfortable for a night to bring awareness to the housing issues facing our city.”
Shane Thill, director of MCTEA, said “The students were offered their choice of what they wanted to do for a fundraiser, and they chose to sleep in a box. I’m proud of them and their willingness to step up to creatively support a local organization working to address our housing issues.”
“We are proud to support young leaders in advancing Habitat’s mission in communities across the country,” said Ed Woods, Director, Corporate Responsibility at State Farm. “At State Farm, we make it our business to be a good neighbor and are committed to building safer, stronger and better educated communities.”
Habitat has several programs to engage youth ages 5 to 25. In addition to State Farm supporting Habitat for Humanity’s youth programs since 2007, many local Habitat organizations also receive ongoing support.
If you would like to support the students’ fundraising efforts, please contact Anessa Klumb at 605-996-9068.