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Habitat for Humanity affiliate merged with Franklin affiliate; plans first build and 10 critical repairs
Summary
Habitat for Humanity representatives told council they merged Franklin and Southampton Roads affiliates in July 2025 and plan a new home on Stonewall Street plus a local critical home repair program that aims to complete 10 repairs and start one build before year-end.
Habitat for Humanity representatives updated council on recent organizational changes and local projects in Franklin. Megan Savali, introduced by staff as the affiliate executive director, said the Franklin and Southampton Roads affiliates merged in July 2025 after a regional consolidation in early 2024.
"So in July 2025, we officially took over the Franklin and merged with the Franklin affiliate," Savali said, describing the affiliate's programs: a homeownership pipeline for new construction and a critical home repair program for seniors, veterans and persons with disabilities. Marshall Vernon, identified as director of operations, said the group has a lot on the docket in Franklin, including a planned house on Stonewall Street.
"Our goal is to get this house, started before the end of the year, pretty well underway, as well as, complete 10, repairs with the funding that we've sequestered, specifically in the city of Franklin," Vernon said. The presenters also said their local ReStore generates income for programs and that they leverage grants from local foundations and federal HOME and CDBG funding.
Council members praised the affiliate and discussed volunteer opportunities and application procedures for prospective first-time homebuyers. Staff noted the build plans are not yet architecturally stamped and that zoning and building review are ongoing.
