(Middleton, ID)— In response to the growing need for affordable housing, the non-profit, First Story, Hayden Homes, the City of Middleton and other local partners are collaborating to help a local family move into a new home in Middleton. A special, social distancing, wall raising event was attended by the Wood family, City of Middleton Mayor, Steven Rule and members of the Hayden Homes and First Story teams.
“As Mayor, I was very proud to participate in interviewing the Wood family and being a part of their dream of homeownership,” said Steven Rule, City of Middleton Mayor. “Thank you again for letting Middleton, and myself, be a part of this great and benevolent program. I am honored and rewarded at the same time.”
The non-profit, First Story, is addressing the affordable housing crisis through an integrated approach that focuses on providing a hand-up to homeownership. First Story, Hayden Homes and the City of Middleton have come together for this special project in order to provide affordable homeownership opportunities in Middleton. Numerous donors have contributed to the Wood family’s new home,  including the City of Middleton’s donation of water and sewer hookup fees. The home is being constructed by Hayden Homes in their Sawtooth Lakes community and sold through First Story’s 30-year non-interest loan program.
After years of hard work and education through NeighborWorks Boise, the Wood family is breaking the cycle of poverty and becoming the first members of their families to own a home. After moving 14 times in 16 years, the Wood family can’t wait to unpack their boxes for good.  “We are grateful for the safety, health and happiness that owning a home brings. As parents, homeownership is the dream of breaking the cycle of living with the poverty spirit,” said Kenny and Amber Wood, homeowners.
A special key ceremony and welcome home celebration will take place for the families in October.
Watch the wall raising ceremony here.
If you would like more information or access to media assets including video footage and interviews please contact Katy Wooderson at kwooderson@hayden-homes.com or 541-639-6848.
About First Story
First Story is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing affordable home ownership opportunities to hardworking families throughout Oregon, Washington and Idaho. First Story’s integrated approach to affordable housing gives families a hand up to homeownership while preserving dignity, respect, and encouraging inclusivity. Founded in Redmond, Oregon in 1998, First Story has helped more than 10,000 families through new home construction and financial support. For more information visit: www.FirstStory.org.
 About Hayden Homes
Established in Redmond, Oregon in 1989, Hayden Homes has provided over 17,000 new homes to price conscious, value-driven homebuyers in underserved, secondary markets throughout Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Hayden Homes continues to be the largest privately-owned new home builder in the Pacific Northwest.
Hayden Homes exists to Give As You Go™, so together we build a strong community, and lead fulfilled lives. Hayden Homes has contributed 3.25 billion dollars to local economies and has created more than 69,000 jobs since the company’s inception. Hayden Homes supports philanthropic efforts in the communities in which they build and have contributed more than 24.2 million dollars in charitable donations with the flagship of their giving through the 501(c)(3) Non-Profit, First Story. To date, First Story has provided over 80 deserving and capable families throughout the Pacific Northwest with a safe, healthy affordable home and a first step toward financial freedom. The Hayden Homes brand family of companies includes Simplicity by Hayden Homes, Wise Size Homes and Hayden Homes, all providing an unparalleled selection of opportunities for those looking to purchase a new home. 
# # #