Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties recently handed over the keys of a newly constructed home to a local healthcare worker, making her dreams of homeownership a reality. The newly constructed home took two years to build and was made possible with support from the Florida Blue Foundation.
Janice Rayner has dedicated 24 years to working in the local healthcare system, yet despite her steady employment, owning her own home remained a distant goal. After her mother’s passing and facing rising rent costs, Rayner had to move in with her daughter. As she continued to dream of having her own space, she decided to pursue Habitat for Humanity’s affordable homeownership program.
“Thanks to the Florida Blue Foundation, Habitat for Humanity can help more hardworking families like Janice’s find homes they can afford and call their own,” said Karole Davis, donor development specialist of Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties. “This partnership strengthens our mission to build stability and hope through affordable homeownership, one family at a time.”
Following Hurricane Ian, the Florida Blue Foundation provided a grant in 2023, which contributed to the building of Rayner’s home. Along with sponsoring the construction costs, 27 volunteers from Florida Blue contributed a total of 197 volunteer hours.
“Having access to safe, affordable housing is essential for people’s health and resilience, especially after a disaster,” said Janet Pogar, market leader for Florida Blue’s West Region. “This Habitat for Humanity home represents more than just a house – it’s a foundation for a brighter future and a healthier, more stable life. It’s a testament to Florida Blue and the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting our Southwest Florida neighbors, helping them thrive for many years to come.”
Rayner completed more than 300 hours of sweat equity, attended over 20 hours of homeownership education classes and contributed $2,000 toward her closing costs. In May, she moved into her new Habitat home, with monthly payments set at no more than 30% of her income.
Rayner now enjoys the comfort of her own space, watering her garden and reminiscing on fond memories of her late mother.
To learn more about Habitat’s Affordable Homeownership Program or to become a sponsor, visit Habitat4Humanity.org.
About Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties
Habitat for Humanity is a faith-based, private nonprofit organization that is one of the leading affordable housing builders and developers in Lee and Hendry counties. Habitat for Humanity partners with families to realize their housing and financial goals through HUD-approved housing counseling services. The organization offers pathways to affordable homeownership, serves as a mortgage lender and restores homes to safe and whole conditions through repair services. Since 1982, Habitat has built more than 1,900 homes, repaired over 390 homes and counseled more than 3,000 families to achieve their housing and financial goals. Everyone who engages with Habitat’s mission is working to address the critical need for affordable housing in Lee and Hendry counties. For more information, visit Habitat4Humanity.org.
link