By John Howell Sr.

Panola County’s Habitat for Humanity chapter will dedicate its eighth home Sunday, Feb. 8, at 2 p.m.

Everyone is invited to celebrate the completion of the home of the Darlene Farmer family at 401 Lincoln Street in Sardis, Panola Habitat spokesman Mary Murphy said.

“We thank all of our many volunteers and those who donated their time and money to building this house,” Murphy said.

Sunday’s dedication of the Farmer home will include special recognition for Tom Hastings and for Thomas and Mary Kennedy, Habitat volunteers who have recently retired from active participation in the program, Murphy said.

Habitat for Humanity is a Christian-based organization which helps low-income families own their homes.

No down payment is needed, but applicant families are expected to invest at least 300 hours of “sweat equity” alongside Habitat volunteers to help with the home construction.

Bishop E. M. Fondren Sr. is Panola Habitat chapter board president.

Members include Becky Owen, Sarah Dell Gray, Ted Stewart, Mary Murphy, James Sanford, Bob Wadsworth, John Howell Sr., Bill McKenzie and David Sanford.

Panola Habitat for Humanity meets each second Monday at 6:30 p.m. at the Batesville Public Library.