“It is hard to argue that housing is not a fundamental human need. Decent, affordable housing should be a basic right for everybody in this country. The reason is simple: without stable shelter, everything else falls apart."

― Matthew Desmond, Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City

Meet the Interns Who Turn Habitat into Headlines

Ever wonder who’s behind the posts you double-tap, the stories that tug your heart, or the newsletter you’re reading right now? Meet our Pearce Center interns, Habitat’s behind-the-scenes storytellers. From snapping pics in the dirt to editing on deadline to interviewing our community partners with mic-in-hand curiosity, they’re using their communication superpowers to build more than homes. Come spend a day in their shoes (or at least their Google Docs).

While some interns take notes, our Construction Intern, Jacob Lesley takes charge on-site, on-task, and hands-on. Whether it’s coordinating volunteers, hauling materials, or keeping our build days running smooth, he plays a key role in making real progress possible. Our homes don’t rise without help, and this intern is proof that every hour counts.

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The cost of building a home in Pickens County has surged nearly 60% since 2020. That’s not just a financial strain, it’s a direct threat to affordable homeownership in our community. In this article, we break down what that spike really means for families, for our work, and for the role annual giving plays in keeping the mission alive. Because for us, this isn’t theoretical. It’s personal. And it’s urgent.

170 Erin Lane, Pickens

95% complete



Plumbing, porch rails, and landscaping in progress; plumbing and rails to be completed for Certificate of Occupancy (CO). Partner family has completed all required hours of sweat equity.

517 Habersham Ln., Easley (WB25)

20% complete

Interior walls in progress; exterior sheathing (plywood) underway; trusses to go up next week. Partner family has completed 100 hours of sweat equity.

519 Habersham Ln., Easley (HC24)

35% complete

House set scheduled for two weeks from now; block course underway to allow clearance around foundation. Partner family has completed 54 hours of sweat equity.

Want to keep up with the latest PCHFH construction news? Follow Pickens County Habitat for Humanity on your favorite social media network!