SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – A construction site in Seminole County looked different than usual this week, with dozens of women picking up tools and building homes as part of a Women Build initiative during Women’s History Month.
Seminole Apopka Habitat for Humanity is using its Women Build program to do more than construct houses. Organizers say the initiative creates opportunities for women to learn hands-on skills in construction while supporting future homeowners in the community.
More than 30 Women Build groups are contributing to homes across the area, including a team of volunteers working alongside construction company Finfrock.
“We do Women Build because it’s a safe place for women to learn a skill in a very male-dominated trade,” a Habitat for Humanity CEO said. “ And the other reason is that a majority of our clients who are our future home buyers are women. They’re single women, head of household. And we know that over half of the women that are single and raising children on their own live in poverty. So what better group of people to have to network together today?”
Volunteers of all experience levels are taking part, with many trying construction tools for the first time.
“I think we have women here who have never picked up a hammer before, and now they’re shooting nails with a nail gun,” Jennifer Finfrock said. “It’s very exciting. I might have screamed a few times, but, you know, what else? Do you get a chance to do that and really have it mean something?”
Participants spent the day installing siding — measuring, cutting and securing panels to the exterior of the homes. The materials are designed to withstand Florida’s harsh weather, including hurricanes.
For some volunteers, the experience also highlights the importance of representation in the construction industry.
“Well, I’ve worked in the construction industry for a few years now, and there’s definitely not as many women out there on a job site as there are men, so it’s always fun to see women out there,” Julia Finfrock said.
Organizers say the initiative also addresses a broader issue of housing insecurity among women, particularly single mothers.
“What happens is women end up being the ones who are struggling to be able to work full-time jobs and care for their families and have an affordable place to live that’s so important for their family, for the dignity of their entire family,” Shanda Lee said. “And so the Women Build initiative really focuses on that fact, brings that fact to life, and helps women come together and work together to raise each other up.”
The home is expected to be completed this summer.