Even while the 15th build for Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln County is taking shape a nail at a time, the organization is looking for someone to live in house No. 16.

Habitat will host a Homeowner Applicant Orientation at its offices at 230 South First St. Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. for anyone who has questions about the application process and the qualifications required to own a Habitat home.

Habitat looks at the applicant’s need, ability to pay a 30-year, zero-interest mortgage and a willingness to help with sweat equity and public speaking to promote Habitat.

“They can come in and get a clear understanding of how to apply and what they will need to apply,” said Mieshia Smith, who is stepping into the volunteer role as executive director this month. “It will help them with the process.”

Not only is the organization looking for a family to qualify for the 16th build, they’re in need of volunteers who can help with construction, she said. Those who want to help, or need volunteer hours for Mississippi Scholars, can also attend the orientation Saturday at the First Street Business Center.

Packets for applicants will be accepted Oct. 1-15. Former Executive Director Suzanne Smith, who will continue to volunteer with the organization through the end of the year, hopes to have a qualified family selected by mid-November.

Her goal is to attend the ground-breaking ceremony before she moves out of state in January, she said.

House No. 15 is under construction at 507 Laird Circle in a double lot and will be the new home of Angela Kelly and her three daughters — Madison, Morgan and Mallory Kelly.

The Kellys broke ground with Habitat officials in April 2018 for the four-bedroom house with two bathrooms on Laird Circle. The family has attended classes on home ownership and finance and worked closely with Habitat in the design and building process. By the time they move in, they’ll have donated at least 250 volunteer hours on the build.

House No. 16 will be built in the same lot, which will make the owners the Kellys’ neighbors.

If anyone is interested in donating funds or volunteering, they can call the Habitat offices at 601-823-4061.