An Intern’s View

This February has been particularly cold and windy. As an intern, I drive to the Habitat office in Franklin County once a month and feel the biting cold of the early morning while I wait for my car’s heater to fight the chill in the air.

I visited three Habitat home sites today: one rehab, one in-progress lot, and one unbuilt lot. Each lot is unique and will soon become a finished home for local families and individuals. My last stop on the tour was the in-progress lot. The home covers 1,200 square feet with an open-concept layout, three bedrooms and a clear view of the mountains. As I walked through, I imagined what it would look like in May after its dedication and in six months as the family prepares for the holiday season. I see a Christmas tree in one corner with toys scattered across the couch and floor. I see a birthday cake on the kitchen counter with plenty of balloons and cake for all. I see a crowd of kids running in and out of the front door during the summer, enjoying icy lemonade under the warm sun.

But for now, this home is empty. I hear the wind whistling past the house, unable to get past the new insulation. In a moment, I’ll have to step outside into the full force of the wind and drive back home. I’ll see my roommate, and we’ll drink tea, safe from the elements. But my mind will wander back to that almost-ready home, wondering where its family is as they wait for it to be completed.

Written by Joanna Story, Lancaster Bible College senior and HFHFC intern