Millions of families are priced out of stable housing. In our series opener, Mark and Pat lay out what’s at stake... and where hope begins when neighbors, faith communities, companies, and volunteers pick up hammers together. You’ll hear from homeowners, crew leaders, and community partners on the human cost of the crisis, the economics behind it, and why Habitat’s “hand up, not handout” model works.
In this episode
- Why housing costs outpace wages... and how that forces impossible choices for families
- A homeowner’s voice on choosing a mortgage over rising rent to build equity and stability
- The systemic view: how affordable homes strengthen schools, local economies, and mobility
- The build-site reality: rising material costs, waiting lists, and the urgent need for more hands
- Faith and community: blessings that turn love into action
- A path forward: partnerships that make the “how” of Habitat possible
Featured voices
Sandra (Homeowner) • Jessica Gill (Operations Consultant, Habitat for Humanity of Georgia) • Tracy Styf (Director, Town Center CID) • Craig Tucker (Site Leader) • John Michael Pinger (Volunteer) • Rev. Richard Burd (Unity North) • Rev. Dr. Ralph Thompson (Bethany UMC) • Rabbi Chase Foster (Temple Kol Emeth) • Dee (Future Homeowner) • Kyle Huhtanen (CEO, NW Metro Atlanta Habitat) • Paula Wilson (Photographer) • David Massey (CFO, Fortune-Johnson; Habitat Board Member)
Take action
Moved by what you heard? Join the mission. Donate, volunteer, or explore sponsorships: PodcastAtlanta.com/Habitat
Credits
Hosted by Mark Deal & Pat Fenner • Editing & Sound Design: Pat Fenner • Story & Interviews: Mark Deal
This is a Podcast Atlanta production
Mentioned in this episode:
The Crisis - song
Celebrate 40 Years of Habitat NWMA
On October 20, Habitat for Humanity Northwest Metro Atlanta will celebrate 40 years of building homes, communities, and hope. If these stories inspire you, learn more about the celebration, attend, become a sponsor, or join the Dream Builders program at $40 a month for 40 months.
**Learn more and take the next step:**
https://habitat-heart-hammer-home.captivate.fm/dreambuilders
Oct 20 donation
