CHESTER COUNTY, PA — Habitat for Humanity of Chester County will participate in the first-ever Rural Rally, part of Habitat for Humanity International’s 39th Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project, on Wednesday, October 30. The nationwide effort aims to spotlight the growing need for affordable housing in rural communities while honoring the Carters’ enduring legacy of volunteerism and service.
The Carter Work Project, Habitat’s flagship annual build, brings together thousands of volunteers to construct homes in a single week. This year’s main event, based in Austin, Texas, will see 25 new homes built. At the same time, more than 60 rural communities across 20 states will take part in local projects as part of the Rural Rally initiative.
Habitat for Humanity of Chester County will represent Pennsylvania as the state’s only participating affiliate. The local event will take place at Fuller Meadows in West Grove, featuring a public presentation followed by a hands-on volunteer opportunity. Community members are invited to attend to learn about Habitat’s work and contribute to the construction effort.
“Here in Chester County, when we build or repair a home, we’re doing more than providing shelter—we’re investing in the strength and future of the community,” said Christy Kane, Director of Development and Marketing for Habitat for Humanity of Chester County. “Housing that is affordable allows families to put down roots, helps local workers live close to where they serve, and creates the stability needed for neighborhoods and rural towns to thrive.”
The event will be held at Fuller Meadows, 121 South Guernsey Road, West Grove. The presentation and reception will run from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., followed by a volunteer session from noon to 3:00 p.m., where participants will help hang drywall. Volunteer space is limited to 20 people.
Habitat officials emphasize that while housing challenges in urban areas often draw the most attention, rural communities face their own critical shortages. Nationwide, one in four rural households spends more than 30 percent of their income on housing — a burden that Habitat hopes to ease through initiatives like the Rural Rally.
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