Green Country Habitat for Humanity (GCHFH) dedicated its 500th home in August of this year. Since 1988, GCHFH has worked with families throughout the Tulsa region to build stability and generational wealth. 500 families have achieved their dream of homeownership through our organization’s Homebuyer Program.

“I’m grateful to Habitat for Humanity and so excited to be a homeowner finally,” said Sherina Russell, who received the keys to her new home at a special dedication event held on August 20th, 2022, at Tulsa’s 36th Street North Event Center. “This dream for my husband Allen and our two sons has affirmed all our hard work.”

Construction on the Russells’ home began months ago, part of a collaborative effort that saw multiple Tulsa businesses coming on board as sponsors of individual homes. Williams Energy sponsored the Russell home as part of the company’s dedication to community investing, and “we’re proud to be just a small part of what Habitat for Humanity does here in Tulsa,” said Chad Teply, a member of GCHFH’s board of directors and the senior vice president of project execution for Williams.

“Williams is proudly energizing our hometown community,” continued Teply. “Investing in housing and helping build a stronger, healthier Tulsa pays dividends for us all, and we appreciate the GCHFH team for providing us this opportunity to serve.”

For the Russell family, owning a new home brings with it a sense of pride and accomplishment. They were required to attend hours of training and complete several courses on financial literacy and homeownership best practices, in addition to contributing more than 30 hours of sweat equity. Volunteerism remains a core tenet of the Habitat for Humanity program, offering families and sponsors the opportunity to get “hands-on.”

“As beautiful as their new home is, this family has gained more than a place to live,” said Teply. “They’re positioned for financial success going forward.”

By partnering with lending institutions and providing down payment assistance, Habitat for Humanity keeps houses affordable by capping mortgage payments at 30% of a family’s gross income. Homeowners still pay the full price for their house and must earn less than 80% of the Tulsa County median income to qualify for the program.

“The need for affordable housing has grown significantly over the years,” said GCHFH President and CEO Cameron Walker, “and so has our dedication to helping more families. When I started seven years ago, we built eight homes per year. Now I’m proud to say that number has risen to over 30 and growing, thanks to the support of our sponsors, partners, and volunteers.”