ST. LOUIS –Hundreds of St. Louis families are living the dream of homeownership thanks to an enduring partnership between the Electrical Connection and Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis.  For 10 consecutive years, the Electrical Connection has ensured that more than 180 Habitat homes have been wired safely by donating electrical services and materials for code-compliant installations.  The Electrical Connection is a partnership of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1 and the St. Louis Chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association. 

“We are grateful to have had the support of the Electrical Connection for 10 consecutive years.  The Electrical Connection not only generously donates materials and services to safely wire Habitat for Humanity Homes, but it ensures the installations meet code requirements,” said Kimberly McKinney CEO, Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis.  “With the Electrical Connection’s assistance, we can continue the important work of providing affordable housing for hardworking low income families who deserve a safe and decent place to live.”

Over the past 10 years, the Electrical Connection donation has covered every aspect of electrical infrastructure and fixtures in Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis homes.  In total, it amounts to:

·         More than 360,000 feet of Romex wiring

·         More than 2,160 fixtures

·         More than 3,240 light switches

·         More than 7,200 receptacles

“Our partnership with Habitat for Humanity is just one way we are committed to

strengthening our home town,” said Frank Jacobs, business manager, IBEW Local 1.  “Our electricians and communication technicians understand that the vitality of our neighborhoods is energized by broadening opportunities for home ownership.” 

St. Louis NECA Chapter CEO Doug Martin echoed those sentiments.  “NECA partners with the IBEW through the Electrical Connection to leverage our technical proficiencies where it can best help build stronger communities.”  

About Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis

Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis (HFHSL) is a not-for-profit, ecumenical housing ministry working in partnership with individuals and communities of all faiths to improve housing conditions and provide safe, decent and affordable housing in St. Louis City and County. With nearly 400 homes already built or rehabbed, HFHSL is one of the leading housing developers in St. Louis. HFHSL donors, volunteers, and partner families work side-by-side to build or rehab homes ensuring that every deserving family in St. Louis has a decent place to live.

In addition to a down payment and a 30-year affordable mortgage, each HFHSL homebuyer invests 350 sweat-equity volunteer hours into building or rehabbing a home and attending life skills classes. Homeowners are teachers, healthcare providers and returning college students determined to achieve homeownership and create a legacy for their families.

Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis:  Building Homes, Building Hope, Building St. Louis. For more information, visit: www.habitatstl.org.