Habitat for Humanity Breaks Ground on First Combined Paulding–Van Wert Home

VAN WERT — The newly unified Habitat for Humanity of Paulding and Van Wert Counties held its first official groundbreaking on Sunday afternoon in Van Wert, marking a milestone for the organization and for one local family.

Board members, volunteers, elected officials, and members of the Wheeler family gathered at the future home site to celebrate the beginning of construction for the Habitat’s first collaborative home project since the two counties merged chapters.

“This is our first groundbreaking under the new Habitat for Humanity of Paulding–Van Wert,” said an organizer at the event. “It has gone so smoothly already, and we’re incredibly excited.”

Cheryl, who leads family support and selection, praised the Wheeler family and specifically new homeowner Cheyanna Wheeler, who will be moving into the home with her young son. “Cheyanna is going to be the one to turn this house into a home,” Cheryl said. “We’re looking forward to helping her every step of the way—from walls to colors to all the little details.”

The home’s walls have been donated by Help Build Hope, reducing material costs significantly. Other donations have also come in to help make the project more affordable, and the board expressed gratitude for the outpouring of community support.

Two elected officials, Ohio Representatives Jim Hoops and Roy Klopfenstein, were in attendance and offered remarks.

“One of the big things we’re working on in Columbus is bringing jobs into Ohio, but we also need housing,” said Rep. Hoops. “Every individual and family wants a place to call home, and this kind of collaboration is how we get there.”

Rep. Klopfenstein offered a more personal reflection. “Habitat for Humanity builds houses—but it’s the people and community who make it a home,” he said. “It’s about relationships: with neighbors, with volunteers, and within families. This is what turns dirt and lumber into something truly meaningful.”

Cheyanna Wheeler, fighting back tears, shared her emotional story. “I came to Van Wert to give my son a better life. My past wasn’t great—we lost my sister in 2020 to suicide because of the life we grew up in. I never expected anything like this. This is such a blessing.”

Her mother added, “I’m very proud of her. She’s a great mom, and I’m thankful for everyone who made this happen.”

The ceremony closed with a prayer asking for blessings on the home, protection over the project, and strength for all involved. Volunteers then joined the Wheeler family for the ceremonial first dig—shovels in hand, smiles on faces, and hope in abundance.

With a long list of volunteers already signed up, construction is expected to be a team effort fueled by faith, determination, and community spirit.

“This isn’t just about building a house,” one board member concluded. “It’s about building a future—and we’re thrilled to be a part of it.”