Habitat for Humanity affiliates envision a world where everyone has a decent place to live. And thanks to a donation from Publix Super Markets Charities and help from Publix, they’re getting closer to reaching that goal.

Last month, Publix Charities announced the donation of $5.5 million to Habitat for Humanity affiliates in our operating area. The donation is providing funding to build more than 60 new houses in 2017 as well as support to more than 120 affiliates.

To kick off the announcement, our media and community relations team conducted Surprise the Homeowner events. During these events, families were surprised with the news that Publix Charities will be their house sponsor in 2017. And to help make each house a home, Publix will donate a fully stocked pantry.

The Castro family from Immokalee, Florida, was one of the first to get the news they’ve been waiting for. Maria Teresa, Jesus and their 5-year-old daughter are currently renting a room inside a house and have been on the waitlist for a sponsor with the local Habitat affiliate.

“We’re very thankful for this home. Now we won’t have to wonder where we are going to live,” said Maria Teresa.

“Every family deserves an opportunity to have a roof over their heads and food on their table,” said President of Publix Super Markets Charities Carol Jenkins Barnett. “My father [Publix founder George Jenkins] established our foundation in 1966 with a strong desire to see our communities thrive. Fifty years later, we’re still honoring his legacy.”

Publix Charities began its support of Habitat for Humanity in 1989 with its first contribution to Habitat for Humanity of East Polk County (Winter Haven, Florida). The Foundation has continued its support of Habitat for Humanity, donating more than $4 million to more than 80 Habitat affiliates in 2015. This year’s $5.5 million contribution to Habitat for Humanity affiliates is the foundation’s largest gift in any year and will support more than 120 Habitat affiliates across the Southeast.