By Hannah Barber,
On October 8, 2025, at the Kinsloe House, Dan Summerall, President of the Board for Navarro County Habitat for Humanity, delivered a presentation highlighting how their ongoing efforts are fostering hope and strengthening the community—one home at a time. This provided an opportunity to learn about local affordable housing initiatives, delve into the organization’s history, and discover ways to get involved.
Habitat for Humanity is a worldwide, community-oriented movement committed to strengthening neighborhoods by ensuring everyone has access to safe, affordable housing. Homes built through this initiative serve low-to-moderate income individuals and families who demonstrate a genuine need for secure housing, can afford a mortgage, and are willing to partner by contributing “sweat equity” during the construction process. Since its founding in 1976 as a Christian organization, Habitat for Humanity has helped more than 62 million people globally create brighter futures through decent, affordable homes. Their core principles include exemplifying the love of Jesus Christ, addressing shelter needs, advocating for affordable housing solutions, fostering dignity and hope, and supporting sustainable, community-transforming development. Funding comes from donations from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government grants; proceeds from ReStore resale shops that sell donated goods; and mortgage payments from homeowners, which are reinvested into building more homes. Additionally, the organization benefits from donated land, building supplies, and volunteer labor—all essential for keeping home costs affordable.
Habitat for Humanity of Navarro County, established in 2006, is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International.
To date, they have completed and dedicated 17 homes, which are located at Call Street (2007), Columbia (2008), Gioia Circle (7 homes from 2009 to 2016), E 13th Avenue (5 homes from 2017 to 2021), and E 4th Avenue (3 homes from 2022 to 2025). Currently, there are two remaining lots on E 4th Avenue and five on E 3rd Avenue, but construction has been delayed due to costly factors such as the absence of a sewer line and challenging street slopes. The organization is actively seeking new property, ideally with 4-5 lots in a row, to facilitate easier construction.
If you’re interested in volunteering, please call (903) 872-4690 and speak with Sylvia Green. Volunteers work on house construction from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. every Saturday when a house needs to be built. No prior experience is necessary. If you’re unable to help physically, donations for lunch or general program support are also appreciated.