FORT MYERS, Fla. - TelAve -- Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties recently concluded its 13th successful season of Women Build, a national initiative to engage women in the effort to provide safe and decent homes for families in need of affordable housing.

During the 2023 Women Build season, more than 140 volunteers contributed 895 hours on seven different homes for female-led families. Fundraising teams, individual donors and local companies raised more than $379,000 and counting to fund the construction costs of affordable homes for two single moms, each with young children. Through their partnership with Habitat, both future homeowners will put in 300 hours of sweat equity, attend more than 20 hours of homeownership classes, contribute to their closing costs and pay an affordable mortgage set at no more than 30% of their monthly income.

"We are thrilled with the outcome of this year's Women Build season and grateful to all of our supporters who helped make it happen," says Becky Lucas, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties. "With our area rated the most overvalued real estate market in the nation, Habitat is meeting one of the most critical needs our county has ever faced. The dedication of our volunteers and donors is truly inspiring and allows us to continue providing safe and affordable housing for families in our community."

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Women Build in Lee and Hendry Counties also celebrated the support of 131 SuperPeople, women and men who pledged at least $250 annually for five years. Since 2011, Women Build in Lee and Hendry Counties has partnered with 27 families to build strength and stability for more than 68 children through local fundraising and volunteer efforts. This year, the nonprofit is set to build 66 affordable homes in Lee and Hendry counties, with the majority of Habitat homebuyers being women.

Women Build 2023 was generously sponsored by Title Sponsor FineMark National Bank & Trust, Aubuchon Team of Companies, Edison National Bank, Alan Einhorn & Vicki Cooper, John & Lesley Hill, Royal Palm Coast Realtors Association, Habitat ReStores of Lee and Hendry Counties, Suffolk Construction, Suncoast Credit Union, Stilwell Enterprises & Restaurant Group, Victory Layne Chevrolet, Wells Fargo and Zonta Foundation of Southwest Florida, Inc.

To learn more about Women Build or to get involved, visit Habitat4Humanity.org/WomenBuild (https://www.habitat4humanity.org/womenbuild/).