After two years of vigorous work, the Winkler-Morden Habitat for Humanity chapter has reached the start line for its first home in Winkler.

The lot on Main street had its official sod turning Saturday marking the groundwork for construction.

It was an emotional moment for all parties; for the habitat board who has seen the project grow into fruition and the Wiebe family who will have a home to call their own.

Back in January, John and Margaret Wiebe along with their four children Latisha, Alea, and twins Owen and Emma were announced as the first habitat family. John says they can't believe their dream has become an actuality.

"It's very overwhelming. It's been a long journey, and it started before the twins were even born and they're over a year now. It's taken a while, but it's worth it, and we're excited to get going with the building.

"We just want to say thank you to everyone has done so much for us to get this home," says Margaret. "It means a lot to have a home of our own for our family."

Wiebe Family

Christina Falk with the local Habitat, explains that this home is a hand up not a handout and the has to put in 500 sweat equity hours along with paying a mortgage.

She says the Wiebes are aiding the local chapter and taking part in community service, adding once construction starts in August the family will be involved in that as well.

She notes one of the brilliant elements of a Habitat home is as the family's mortgage goes directly to funding the next build.

"As they pay their mortgage they're getting the next family in a house. They're now part of the solution which I think is beautiful."

For those in the community with trade skills wanting to show their support, Falk says there are volunteer days to help in construction. She adds those without trade skills are welcome to come too and help out where they can.

Once construction has been completed, Habitat will begin fundraising to build a home in Morden, to bring both communities together and aid families in need.

Applications to find a family for the Morden home will begin this fall.

Cycle For Hope cyclists stopped by during the sod turning.