Habitat for Humanity Women Build Program Partners with Lowe’s 2005 Training clinics redefine homemaking for women builders and homeowners Habitat for Humanity International officially formed Women Build in 1998 to promote the involvement of women in the construction of Habitat for Humanity homes. At that time, about seven Habitat for Humanity homes were built by women each year. Now, women are building more than 100 homes a year and have built more than 350 Habitat for Humanity homes to date, actively addressing the problem of children in substandard housing and being part of the solution—one house, one family at a time. Here in St. Louis, our own Women Build group has sponsored and overseen the construction of nine Habitat Homes. This year, through of the generosity of Lowe’s, we are excited to construct yet another Women Build house, and train even more St. Louis women in construction while encouraging their participation in the Habitat program.

Through Lowe’s-sponsored Women Builds, women from all walks of life work together to build Habitat for Humanity homes across the United States. The company is also expanding much-needed training opportunities for women by offering workshops at Lowe's stores. Habitat for Humanity’s female volunteers and homeowners can participate in skills workshops to gain hands-on experience in basic construction techniques. Through this partnership, Lowe’s and Women Build are committed to ‘Redefining Home Making’ by providing women with the tools to fight poverty housing.
In 2003, Lowe's contributed more than $700,000 to Habitat for Humanity International through cash and in-kind donations as well as hundreds of hours of local employee volunteers. Lowe's was also the co-premiere sponsor of Habitat's 2003 Jimmy Carter Work Project, which built 92 homes in one week.

This year, Lowe’s has donated $2,000,000 to Habitat for Humanity International. $1.25 million underwrites the Women Build program and supports signature events in 18 cities across the country, including St. Louis.

The Lowe’s Training Clinics cover:

• How to Safely Use Hand and Power Tools
• How to Frame for Walls and Roof
• How to Install Exterior Siding
• How to Install Roofing Shingles
• How to Install Insulation and Drywall
• How to Finish Interior with Paint and Trim

Although no training is necessary to build with Habitat, attending these classes empower our women volunteers with the skills, knowledge and confidence to take on leadership roles.

The clinics will be held locally at the Lowe’s Kirkwood facility, 1212 S. Kirkwood Road, on various dates starting in June. If you are interested and would like to sign up, call 314-835-1779 and ask for the service desk.

If you are interested in joining the Women Build team, please contact us at womenbuildstl@gmail.com.

Habitat for Humanity International Resources

Lowes Women Build Resources