In our new fiscal year that began April 1, Carolina Handling turned its philanthropic focus to supporting the homeless population and people in need with a yearlong campaign entitled “Raise The Roof.” This year, we will build and renovate homes for those living on the streets, collect wish list items for area shelters and support job training, transportation and other services to help empower and heal the homeless in our communities.
The commitment to “Raise The Roof” began with REDFEST, our annual fiscal year kickoff. At each REDFEST celebration, Carolina Handling associates enjoyed games that encouraged teamwork and raised $5,000 for five Habitat for Humanity locations across our territory.
Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta, Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region, Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County, Habitat for Humanity of Wake County and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Birmingham were each presented with a $5,000 check by Carolina Handling associates in April.
Carolina Handling will continue the commitment of support across our territory on October 25 when associates take part in a Habitat build event.
“Serving each other, our customers and our community has been an intentional part of our day and an integral part of the Carolina Handling culture since our founding in 1966,” said Brent Hillabrand, Carolina Handling’s President and CEO. “We believe in giving back in meaningful ways, and we demonstrate that by looking for opportunities to work alongside those in need and those who work every day to assist them. We look forward to our partnership with Habitat for Humanity as we focus our philanthropic efforts on fighting homelessness through affordable housing.”
LaTonya Phillips, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County, said the donation from Carolina Handling will go a long way in supporting the nonprofit’s mission to build homes, strengthen communities and support homeowners.
“This doesn’t happen without partners like yourself. By your donation and your generosity, you are providing a safe space for a family in our community, and we are grateful. Thank you, Carolina Handling,” Phillips told Carolina Handling associates.
Kyle Huhtanen, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of NW Metro Atlanta, said donations also strengthen the ability to work with homeowners to maintain their homes and neighborhoods.
“Donations allow for home repairs, maintenance projects and landscaping projects as the organization stays alongside homeowners long after they move in and begin their path toward ownership,” Huhtanen said.
Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region plans to serve over 500 families in the current fiscal year. Mary-Margaret Johnstone, Partnerships Senior Specialist at Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region, said the $5,000 donation from Carolina Handling will help support operational infrastructure required to deliver Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region’s full scope of services.
“Core programs include new home construction, renovation and sale of existing homes, critical home repairs and financial education that prepares families for successful homeownership,” Johnstone said.
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Birmingham supports affordable housing and disaster recovery needs in Jefferson, Shelby, Walker and St. Clair counties.
“Houses are not given away. We make them affordable while equipping homeowners with the skills and knowledge to sustain them for generations. With your help, homeowners are empowered, confident and determined to achieve independence and build a better life for themselves and their families. They can save more, invest in education, pursue opportunities and achieve greater financial stability,” said Ashton Johnson, Vice President of Development at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Birmingham.
Chase Inman, Vice President of Resource Development for Habitat for Humanity of Wake County said the $5,000 donation from Carolina Handling will help provide the critical building blocks of a Habitat home, including framing, windows, plumbing and electrical systems, ensuring each home is safe, energy-efficient and built to last.
“Because of you, a family will soon open the front door to a home of their own. This is a place to gather, to grow and to build a more stable future,” Inman said.
According to its website, Habitat for Humanity, which is a global nonprofit, helped three million people build or improve a place to call home in fiscal year 2024.
