Foundations of Hope: Construction Begins on Habitat Homes in Calumet

Exciting progress is underway in Calumet as Itasca County Habitat for Humanity officially begins foundation work on our 55th and 56th homes. After months of planning and preparation, these two energy-efficient, net-zero homes are starting to take shape, bringing us one step closer to welcoming two deserving families into safe, affordable homes of their own.

Every Habitat home begins with a solid foundation, and these projects are no exception. Over the coming months, volunteers, community partners, sponsors, and the future homeowners themselves will work side by side to transform these building sites into homes filled with opportunity, stability, and hope.

These homes will be built alongside two remarkable partner families whose perseverance and commitment embody the mission of Habitat for Humanity.

For Cody Broussard, homeownership represents something he has worked toward for many years. After overcoming addiction, building a successful career as a mental health specialist, and raising five children, Cody has spent more than 15 years creating a stable life for his family. Yet rising housing costs and an eviction notice left him wondering if he would have to leave Minnesota, and his children, behind.

A simple conversation with a local city clerk introduced Cody to Habitat for Humanity, opening the door to a new future.

"This experience is already changing me," Cody shared. "I've planted seeds, but I've never had roots."
Soon, Cody will help build the home where his children and grandchildren can gather, creating lasting memories in a place they can truly call home. His story is a powerful reminder that with determination and community support, new beginnings are always possible.

For Brandon and Jen, along with their daughter Harper, becoming a Habitat partner family is about much more than owning a house. It is about creating a safe, stable place where their family can grow and thrive.

Rooted in northern Minnesota, Brandon and Jen value family, hard work, and spending time outdoors. Whether fishing, camping, snowmobiling, or enjoying backyard barbecues with loved ones, they look forward to creating even more memories in a home of their own.

As they shared, Habitat represents "safe, stable living to call home" and "a new beginning—a fresh, safe, stable future as a family."
Over the coming months, they'll invest hundreds of hours of sweat equity, working alongside volunteers to help build not only their own home, but a stronger community.

These homes are made possible because of the generosity of people and organizations who believe everyone deserves a decent place to live.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB) for its generous grant supporting construction of these homes. Their investment in affordable housing is helping make homeownership possible for families in our communities while strengthening the future of the Iron Range.

We also thank the volunteers, donors, sponsors, contractors, and community partners who continue to make our work possible. Every hour volunteered, every dollar donated, and every act of kindness helps move these homes from foundation to finish.

As construction progresses throughout the summer and fall, we look forward to sharing updates as these houses become homes. Together, we're not just building walls, we're building stronger families, stronger neighborhoods, and a stronger Itasca County.

Volunteers and donors are critical partners in making the dream of home ownership possible for these families. Call us at 218-999-9001 or email [email protected] to get involved.