Two Manatee County Habitat Homes Available for Qualifying Veterans

MANATEE COUNTY — Manatee County Habitat for Humanity and Our Next Mission have announced the availability of two newly renovated Habitat homes designated for veterans in need within the community. The deadline to apply is Friday, March 29.

In a collaborative effort, ONM, a nonprofit organization dedicated to renovating homes for at-risk veterans, joined forces with Manatee Habitat to refurbish two affordable homes into pristine condition. Over the past four months, ONM diligently worked to renovate these homes to new condition after repurchasing them from two previous Habitat homeowners who decided to relocate.

However, despite the completion of these renovations, the two organizations are facing challenges in finding qualifying veterans to purchase these homes with an affordable zero-interest mortgage. Eligible applicants must meet certain criteria, including earning between 50% and 80% of the area median income, having at least two years of continuous employment, and being a resident of Manatee County for at least one year.

John Levering, an Army veteran who served in the Vietnam War, exemplifies the transformative impact of these initiatives. Prior to receiving his home from ONM, Levering found himself living in his car. Upon learning about ONM through The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, he applied for the chance to receive housing support.

Two weeks later, after completing the application process, Levering received the life-changing news that he was moving into his new home.

“It's been a great transition," said Levering. "I worked hard for the last year to save some money, and now, thanks to the folks at Our Next Mission, I have retired. I pay $800 a month for lot rent. You can't even get a 1-bedroom apartment for that price.”

Interested Veterans should call Greg Kisela at 850.585.1698 or Larry Burbank at 618.334.1117.

"Veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and it's our duty to ensure they have access to safe and affordable housing," said Gregory Kisela, President and CEO of Our Next Mission. "These homes represent a step towards a brighter future for our veterans, and we are committed to supporting them every step of the way."