Home-Tech funding two Habitat homes

Home-Tech, a local air conditioning and major appliances service and sales company, recently donated funds received through the Community Contribution Tax Credit Program to Habitat for Humanity.

This year's $100,000 donation brings Home-Tech's total giving to $522,000, which has provided 12 homes for local families since 2002. The state program allows for sales-tax rebates to businesses that have made donations toward community development and housing projects for low-income persons. According to Steve Marino, president of Home-Tech, the company qualified for the rebate. With its total contribution of $100,000 this year, Home-Tech is funding two Habitat homes in Lee County.

Habitat for Humanity of Lee County uses volunteers and donations to acquire and build affordable housing.

"We are in the business of repairing and replacing air conditioning systems and major home appliances in homes from Sarasota County to Collier County — essentially we are helping people to operate their homes more smoothly, so our partnership with Habitat for Humanity to provide homes for members of our community is a natural extension of what we do," said Mr. Marino. "We know that people who have their family and housing needs met can better balance their personal lives with their job responsibilities, and that is reflected in the work they do. It's a classic example of win-win. We salute the state of Florida for creating an incentive that will allow more businesses to be good neighbors and make a difference in people's lives."

"Habitat for Humanity provides affordable homes for the area's workforce, which means businesses benefit as well," said Vernon Archibald, president of Lee County Habitat for Humanity. "Habitat is grateful to the local companies, like Home-Tech, who have participated in Habitat's mission through the tax credit program."

Since 1982, Habitat for Humanity of Lee County has served more than1,000 families. Each new homeowner must invest a minimum of 250 hours working side-by-side with the volunteers who build the homes. The homeowners then repay the cost of the home through a long-term, zero-interest loan, and the money goes back into the program to build more homes.

The Community Contribution Tax Credit Program is administered by the Florida Office of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development. More information is available by calling (850) 487-2568.