Piqua, Ohio — Habitat for Humanity of Miami and Shelby Counties marked a major milestone this week with the groundbreaking of two new homes scheduled for construction in Piqua in 2025.
The second ceremony took place at 1 p.m. on the future home site of Raine Poland and her young son, a Habitat Partner Family. Their home is being made possible through the generous sponsorship of Precision Strip and The Duke Foundation.
Representatives from both sponsoring organizations were present to speak about their involvement. Jim Lammers, Vice President of Precision Strip, and Rayce Robinson, President of the Duke Foundation Board, each shared remarks emphasizing the importance of investing in families and creating sustainable communities.
Pastor Keith Berger from the Missionary Church ECR Crisis Relief offered a blessing at the site, joined by Piqua City Manager Paul Oberdorfer and Miami County Commissioner Wade Westfall, who spoke about the positive impact the home will have on the surrounding neighborhood.
Habitat Partner Families, like the Polands, earn the opportunity to purchase their first home by committing to up to 400 hours of “sweat equity”—volunteering in Habitat programs, participating in financial literacy training, and helping build their own home.
“We are thrilled to support Raine on her journey to homeownership,” said a Habitat spokesperson. “Her home, along with another scheduled build next year, will complete the remaining buildable lots on the block—bringing a sense of closure and renewal to the neighborhood.”
The homes represent more than just physical structures—they symbolize stability, growth, and community collaboration. Habitat for Humanity thanked all of the supporters, volunteers, and staff who helped make the celebration possible and continue to make the organization’s mission a reality.
Construction is expected to begin in early 2025.
Photo Credit: Habitat for Humanity
