Chillicothe — You may have missed the annual “Chocolate Fantasy” fundraiser for the Scioto Valley Habitat for Humanity, but there are other ways to support the nonprofit that builds homes for low-income families.
I got to Saturday’s bake sale late but still had a good selection of cocoa carbs. I also asked Roger Crago, president of the board of directors, to explain the event and organization.
The retired Chillicothe Schools superintendent said Habitat for Humanity is the bank for needy families. HFH tries to build one house a year for a family that signs up for assistance, though he says costs have risen in recent years.
The last house they built is their 35th. That includes only four in Pickaway County, since most of their funds are earmarked for homes in Ross.
To fund their efforts, Crago says the Chocolate Fantasy is only one fundraiser among parking cars at the Hirsch Fruit Farm festival, a grant from COVID funds by the Ross County Commissioners, and others.
He says they also accept in-kind donations like excavating a basement for a HFH house, and local churches feed them during their work. Their only paid employee is an administrative assistant at their model home at 171 East 5th Street across from Poland Park.
Crago said they need prayers, volunteers, as well as funds. Hear him in his own words in the below video interview.
Crago said Scioto Valley Habitat for Humanity is best reached at 740 / 779-9734, but they also have a Facebook page.
