Saco father Justin Parizo last week celebrated the dedication of his brand new home purchased through Habitat for Humanity, bringing him and his daughter a sense of stability. 

Father to a young daughter, Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail presented Parizo with the keys on March 25, marking a new beginning for his family. 

“It truly shines a light on the inherent goodness of people,” Parizo said. “With kindness, empathy, and compassion, we can foster community and create the change we want to see in this world.” 

Habitat for Humanity is dedicated to creating affordable home ownership opportunities for people living and working in their communities, Program Manager Alana Shapiro said. 

Prospective homeowners are able to apply for a Habitat for Humanity home twice a year. In order for a person to qualify for a home, the program considers credit, income and current needs. 

If a prospective homeowner meets the need for a home, they must complete a certain number of “sweat equity,” or volunteer hours with Habitat for Humanity. Then, they can purchase a home valued at 29% of their annual income. 

The homeowner takes on one mortgage, while Habitat for Humanity takes on a second mortgage to help pay for the home. 

“It helps to create stability,” Shapiro said. “Rents are very high in this area.” 

The purpose, Shapiro said, is to keep families in the area in situations where high rents would otherwise displace them. This way, families can put down roots. 

“Justin has a young daughter, so she can go to school in Saco and have stability in her childhood,” Shapiro said. 

Parizo has worked with adults with intellectual disabilities in Maine for over eight years, dedicating his time and career to helping others. 

With the purchase of his new home, Parizo looks forward to having a serene place to start each day and a safe place for him and his daughter to relax at night. 

MacPhail was at the home dedication last week, presenting Parizo with the keys to his new home. 

“It is an honor to work with such a wonderful organization as Habitat for Humanity,” MacPhail said. “In our continued efforts to provide affordable housing, I hope to see another opportunity in the future to work together again.” 

Habitat for Humanity plans to continue building homes in southern Maine, homes reserved for those in need of affordable housing. 

“Home ownership is so unaffordable here,” Shapiro said. 

Currently, the program is seeking volunteers, as well as affordable land to purchase for future home builds.