SHHET starts construction

Self Help Housing of East Texas held its first construction meeting Monday, Oct. 22, with two home applicants, government officials and the general contractor.

SHHET needs more applicants to participate in the program to help build or rehabilitate homes damaged by Hurricane Rita in 2005.

"Self Help Housing of East Texas has had its ups and downs, but it is coming together very well," according to Shelly Haynes, who assumed the executive director position in June.

SHHET recently teamed up with GMAC Mortgage to "broaden income requirements for applicants," according to Haynes.

Mark Bean Construction will be the general contractor on the project, which currently has seven applicants.

"Construction should be starting within the next two months," according to Haynes.