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LEXINGTON, Ky. — Lexington's Habitat for Humanity is marking a new chapter for families in need.

What You Need To Know

  • Lexington's Habitat for Humanity is marking a new chapter for families in need

  • Members of Lexington's Habitat for Humanity project came together Tuesday for new homeowner Jennifer and her family

  • The house holds a deep connection between stability and mental health 

  • The building event took place with the Parker Family Foundation, partners of the nonprofit and mental health advocates

Tuesday was the first day leaders and families who are part of Lexington's Habitat for Humanity project came together for new homeowner Jennifer and her family.

CEO Darryl Neher said the anticipation for this day is exciting for many future homeowners.

“The kickoff of a building of a build cycle is where it becomes real," he said. "This, after going through all of our home homeowner education classes and in preparation to arrive at this day, is that tangible moment where they can recognize that homeownership is within their grasp." 

Neher said each home is built in three phases, starting with a general framework before connecting with contractors and dedicating it to those it will benefit.

As of 2024, the Kentucky Housing Corporation estimates more than 200,000 homes are needed across the state, with 22,000 needed in Lexington to reduce the collective housing gap. 

Neher said its nonprofit makes it possible for their communities to do so.

“We are one of the only affordable housing developers in our community that are doing homeownership,” Neher said.

He added this house specifically holds a deep connection between housing stability and mental health.

With the help of the Parker Family Foundation, partners of the nonprofit who have helped build 21 homes, this kickoff was not only dedicated to Jennifer but in memory of Scott and Jackie Parker’s son, 21-year-old Grayson Parker, who lost his life to suicide. 

“We have three children," Scott shared about his son. "He was our youngest. He was a happy child. He was great, successful ... and we lost him suddenly, without warning, on March 25 of last year. That's why (we) have established the Grayson Parker Memorial Foundation to help more families."

“What we know from the data is that the foundation of housing stability reduces the stresses and anxieties of everyday life that often create mental health issues, anxiety issues, stress and all of the things that come along with it," Neher said. "For us, when we celebrate a kickoff, we highlight the importance of the things that you don't see." 

Habitat for Humanity Lexington partners with other agencies such as New Vista for mental health services. The nonprofit has also constructed almost 500 homes around the city since 1986.

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