Homes
The physical effort and money donated toward this mission is multiplied as much as 3-fold, as the municipality of San Nicolas provides land, labor and logistical assistance. Most of the homes have been built on land owned by the municipality in an area known as San Sebastian, which has since developed into a community unto itself. Typically, a single-family home costs $4000 t0 $4500, depending on terrain, and duplexes cost $6000. We estimate the final value with the land and municipality contributions added to be $12,000 to $15,000 per house. This means every dollar donated generates $3 of value and investment going into the local economy.
Recipients
Upon completion the home is deeded to the youngest child in the household and cannot be sold until that individual reaches 18 years of age. All that is expected of the new homeowner is to provide sweat equity. Past recipients continue to pitch in with new construction every year as they welcome new neighbors. In 2018 the families of San Sebastian cleared off an area for church worship services. Again, this project does not simply build houses but as houses became homes, those homes became a community!
Community Benefits
In addition to creating homes, Millbrook contributions have also played a role in connecting San Sebastian to the public sewer and water systems which further insures healthier living conditions for the community. In recent years, the team has been involved in building some of the homes outside of San Sebastian in situations where the family had access to their own property, usually shared with other family members. We have also been involved with providing solar power to remote locations off the power grid and with getting electricity to a remote health clinic.
Collaboration
This mission coordinates efforts with the Dorcas sewing ministry at Millbrook, who, over the course of the year, sews children’s clothing to be distributed to children of families receiving homes. In some cases, this will be the child’s only new clothing they will ever receive. Other MBC and external contributors have given funds for school supplies, shoes, hygiene kits, vitamins, and medical supplies.
In past years a Chicago donor has provided support for cleaner burning stoves for the homes and contributed toward labor costs. Additionally, other churches consistently contribute to this project as part of their mission efforts. It should be noted that participants cover their own expenses, so every dollar contributed goes into the project without the overhead and administrative costs usually associated with similar endeavors.
Donations
Donations are accepted year-round and, if interested, you can join the team for the next trip. You do not have to be a member of Millbrook to donate or to join the team. The work is hard, but the experience will be as life changing for you as it is for the families we assist.
