Habitat for Humanity Pope Francis House

Published July 10, 2015

Habitat for Humanity of Pulaski County is currently building the "Pope Francis House" on a vacant lot on Geyer Springs Road in southwest Little Rock. Bishop Anthony B. Taylor blessed the concrete foundation and workers on July 2, 2015 before the exterior walls were erected by veteran Habitat volunteers and about 40 Catholic volunteers from central Arkansas. Among them were diocesan priests, seminarians, Knights of Columbus members and parishioners 16 years old and older.

The house is being built for Regina Goynes, who is working alongside the volunteers putting "sweat equity" into her future home. An anonymous, out-of-state donor gave $60,000 to the Pulaski County chapter to build the home in honor of Pope Francis, who will make his first visit as pope to the United States in September. The home is scheduled to be completed by this visit. CHI St. Vincent donated the remaining amount to build the home.

Catholic Charities of Arkansas is working with Habitat for Humanity to organize Catholic volunteers and donations of materials. Volunteers, 16 years old and older, are needed. They are asked to work between 8 a.m. and noon on July 18, July 25, Aug. 15 and Aug. 22. No construction experience is necessary. To volunteer, contact Patrick Gallaher, director of Catholic Charities, at (501) 664-0340.