$50,000 Gives Back Sponsorship Helps “Starter Home” Program Expand in Flagstaff

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (May 30, 2024) — The Arizona Lottery and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona (HFHNA) are excited to announce the groundbreaking of the Timber Sky Starter Home project, made possible by funding from the Arizona Lottery and other community partners. This event, set to take place on Friday, June 7 at 11:00 a.m. at Timber Sky in Flagstaff, will be attended by Governor Katie Hobbs, Flagstaff City Council Members, project partners, and other community leaders.

This innovative project addresses Flagstaff and surrounding areas' critical housing affordability crisis by constructing sustainable, energy-efficient starter homes. The homes are designed to provide affordable housing solutions for essential community workers, including police officers and teachers. Families earning between 50% and 80% of the area median income can apply. Accepted families make a $1,000 down payment and take on an interest-free loan, keeping monthly payments at or below $1,000.

"Affordable housing is vital to the well-being of every community, and we are proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity to address the housing shortage in Flagstaff by investing in the Timber Sky Starter Home Project," said Alec Thomson, Arizona Lottery CEO. “This project is a testament to the power of community partnership and underscores the Arizona Lottery’s commitment to supporting health and human services for Arizonans through ticket sales.”

The Timber Sky Starter Home program responds directly to Flagstaff’s declared Housing Emergency, with plans to build approximately 13 homes by Spring 2025. These 500-square-foot homes, designed by Karl Eberhard and built by Wespac Construction, Inc., Buzzard Construction, and Coconino Community College students, feature energy-efficient designs, all-electric systems with solar PV, and Energy Star appliances. They are projected to achieve net-zero energy consumption, producing more energy than they use. The program also includes an innovative equity savings plan, allowing homeowners to build financial stability.

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs highlighted the importance of this project saying, "The collaboration between Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona and the Arizona Lottery is a powerful example of how we can unite to support our neighbors. The Timber Sky Starter Home program is not just about building houses; it's about building stronger, more resilient communities. This partnership is crucial for ensuring that every Arizonan has access to safe, affordable housing."

This groundbreaking project represents a significant joint effort. The Arizona Lottery's sponsorship is crucial in developing these homes, extending its commitment to community development. The Arizona Lottery previously supported HFHNA in building the first two starter homes in Flagstaff, which have received several accolades for their innovative design and impact on the community.

“By coming together, we are making a lasting impact on the lives of hardworking families and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all Arizonans, added Governor Hobbs. “With this groundbreaking, Arizonans are one step closer to gaining safe, affordable housing, and it sets an example for the potential we can achieve through collaborative efforts."

Northern Arizona University’s Project SmartFan also supports the project, which helps fund the development of affordable cooling solutions for these homes.

“The Timber Sky masterplan development incorporates multiple layers of economic security through the inclusion of affordable, workforce housing,” said Eric Wolverton, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona. “A revolution in community design, Timber Sky, in partnership with Roers and Habitat For Humanity of Northern Arizona, will provide an equitable housing approach for all families of Flagstaff.” 

Looking forward, Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona plans to continue expanding this program, aiming to construct 40 homes at the Timber Sky site over the next three years. These efforts will significantly contribute to alleviating the housing shortage and building a more inclusive community in Flagstaff.

To learn more about the Starter Homes or to donate, visit www.habitatflagstaff.org/our-homes. To learn more about Arizona Lottery Gives Back, please visit www.arizonalottery.com/givesback.