FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Erin Roach
Email: erin@dorchesterhabitat.org
Summerville, SC — Dorchester Habitat for Humanity is thrilled to announce a generous $40,000 donation from Publix Super Markets Charities in support of the Building Dreams on Dean Drive campaign. This vital funding will sponsor half the cost of constructing a home for the Tibayan family, a hardworking father, mother, and their two young daughters.
The Building Dreams on Dean Drive initiative embodies Dorchester Habitat’s mission to provide safe, affordable housing for families in need. This transformative project focuses on building a supportive neighborhood with four new homes that foster stability, opportunity, and community. With the first home completed and preparations underway for the second, the impact of this campaign is already evident.
Michael Tibayan, the anticipated homeowner of the next home, is a full-time mechanic technician at Boeing. He and his partner, Maria, share two daughters under the age of two, Rainn and Xylia. Rainn, who is on the autism spectrum, requires a home tailored to her unique needs.
The Tibayan family’s future home will be a four-bedroom house, providing the space and environment necessary for Rainn to thrive and for the family to grow together.
“As a father and partner, owning a home means everything to me,” said Michael Tibayan. “It’s more than just a roof over our heads—it’s a safe and stable environment where our daughters can grow and thrive. This home will give Rainn the space she needs to develop, learn, and feel secure. For our family, it’s a dream come true, providing a foundation for a brighter future.”
The Building Dreams on Dean Drive project is a powerful example of economic mobility in action, empowering families to build equity and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. Future homeowners contribute 425 sweat-equity hours, help build their homes alongside volunteers, and repay a no-interest, 30-year mortgage.
Economic mobility is at the heart of this campaign. The fair market rent for a two-bedroom home in Dorchester County is $1,372, requiring an hourly wage of $26.38. Meanwhile, the mean renter wage is just $15.53, making affordable housing a critical need in the area. By creating affordable homeownership opportunities, Dorchester Habitat addresses these disparities, enabling families like the Tibayans to achieve stability and thrive.
“Every home we build represents a fresh start for a deserving family and a stronger, more connected community,” said Jaye Elliott, President and CEO of Dorchester Habitat for Humanity. “Publix Super Markets Charities’ generosity makes it possible for us to continue this vital work, changing lives one home at a time.”
Dorchester Habitat for Humanity extends heartfelt gratitude to Publix Super Markets Charities for their commitment to improving lives through affordable housing. Together, they are building dreams, strengthening futures, and transforming our community.
About Dorchester Habitat for Humanity:
Founded in 1993, Dorchester Habitat for Humanity’s mission is “Putting God’s Love Into Action by Bringing People Together to Build Homes and Hope.” To date, Dorchester Habitat has built 75 homes, creating stability and opportunity for families in need.
For more information or to get involved, visit www.dorchesterhabitat.org or call 843-466-4245.
