Habitat Flathead announces affordable housing initiative

Habitat for Humanity is launching an ambitious initiative to address the acute need for affordable home ownership in Whitefish. Grounded in Whitefish is a campaign committed to building ten houses a year for ten years in Whitefish.  

Through the generosity of the Goguen Family, the City of Whitefish, and individual donors, this commitment is becoming a reality.  

“Our town has accomplished so much philanthropic work over the years. Grounded in Whitefish addresses a critical situation in our community,” said long-time resident and philanthropist Carol Atkinson. “The people who work in Whitefish will actually be able to buy a home and live here.” 

The Goguen Family recently donated a lot at 345 Spokane Ave. and Habitat Flathead intends to build as many as five two-bedroom townhouses. Additionally, the Goguen Family invested in the Grounded in Whitefish project with a large financial contribution to cover preliminary construction costs. 

Grounded in Whitefish will begin its first project this summer with the construction of two three-bedroom townhouses on Whitefish Avenue. This lot is being purchased with City of Whitefish resort tax funds. Owners Jack Alton and Zach Pitts sold the lot at a generous discount to Habitat Flathead.  

“Habitat Flathead is thrilled to see the Grounded in Whitefish campaign lift off with such overwhelming, generous support,” said Habitat Executive Director, MaryBeth Morand. “The combination of significant investment from leaders in our philanthropic community and the City of Whitefish is making the dream of affordable home ownership an immediate reality for our town.” 

The community will have the opportunity to learn more about Habitat Flathead and its commitment to building affordable homes in Whitefish at the O’Shaughnessy Center on June 10, from 5-7 p.m. Residents can learn about the application process for owning a Habitat home, how to sign up to volunteer, and hear about other ways community members can support Habitat Flathead. Herb & Omni and Bonsai Brewing are sponsoring the snacks and drinks at the Open House.