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Northwoods Habitat offers tree care assistance for low-income homeowners

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Applications for this year are open through May 30 to get financial help from the Bemidji nonprofit organization, which is also hosting a May 8 breakfast and auctioning off a 'She-Shed.'

BEMIDJI — Northwoods Habitat for Humanity in Bemidji not only builds houses, but offers a variety of services for homeowners and a ReStore that sells used household items and construction materials.

Brandon Mustful, the community engagement coordinator with Northwoods Habitat for Humanity, was a recent guest on the KAXE Morning Show. He talked about the "A Brush With Kindness" tree care program, where low-income homeowners may apply for assistance to have damaged trees removed, replaced or treated.

This program is made possible through a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Northwest Minnesota Foundation. The deadline for this year's applications is May 30.

Mustful explained that trees sometimes need to be managed, but it's not always easy or affordable for some homeowners.

"Cutting down a tree is no easy task," he said. "So this program is really, really important."

Northwoods Habitat for Humanity is currently planning two home builds this summer. Volunteers are always welcome.

"We do have our our regular volunteers that are geared up and ready to go, but we we do need a lot of help. Building two houses is a big deal," Mustful said. You don't have to be an expert in construction to help. There are other tasks, like cleaning up debris and providing meals.

"You just have to be eager to serve," Mustful continued. Contact Northwoods Habitat for Humanity for more information.

In addition, the organization is having their first ever "Hammer & Eggs" breakfast, 7-8:30 a.m. Thursday, May 8, at the Bemidji Eagles Club. The morning includes a free breakfast buffet, a presentation from Habitat Minnesota President and CEO Cristen Incitti, and a chance to meet this year's partner families, who will be working on their new homes. RSVP by April 30 if you would like to attend.

There are also raffle tickets for a "She-Shed." It's an insulated 8-by-10-foot shed with electric hook-ups. Tickets are available at the ReStore, 1357 Exchange Ave., Bemidji for $20 each.

Listen to our full conversation above!

A fancy shed with a large window sits on a trailer in front of a ski slope and chalet.
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Northwoods Habitat for Humanity
Northwoods Habitat for Humanity in Bemidji is raffling off this "She Shed."

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Jennifer has worked at Northern Community Radio since 2006 and spent 17 years as Membership Manager. She shifted to a host/producer position in 2023. She hosts the Monday Morning Show and is the local host of National Public Radio's "All Things Considered" a few days a week. She also writes public services announcements and creates web stories.