(NAPSA)—This year many families will becomefirst time homeowners, thanks to an unusual source: the aluminum can. Worth about a penny, the recycled aluminum can has generated over 1.8 million dollars through a national recycling program that benefits one of America’s favorite charities. That money helped build more than 35 Habitat for Humanity homes thanks to the joint efforts of the Aluminum Association and Habitat for Humanity International. Since the Aluminum CansBuild Habitat for Humanity Homes (ACBHHH)program began in 1997, more than four million pounds of aluminum canshave beenrecycled by andfor Habitataffiliates. “The ACBHHH program has made a remarkable difference in hundreds of communities,” said Millard Fuller, founder and president of Habitat for Humanity International. “Habitat affiliates use the program to complete construction on homes. Thereis so much need out there. You may be too old or too young to swing a hammer, but everyonecan recycle.” A national recycling network consists of more than 475 Habitat affiliates around the nation and 2,000 recycling centers. Homes funded by aluminum canrecycling have been built in Cleveland, Ohio; Denver, Colo.; Houston, Texas; Knoxville, Tenn.; Yuma, Ariz.; and Americus, Ga., as well as many otherlocations across the country. In Yuma, Ariz., a dedicated group of senior citizens raised more than $55,000 through the recycling program. In Fort Wayne, Ind., second grade students held a can drive that netted around 1,000 poundsof Recycled aluminum cans are helping to build Habitat for Humanity homes nationwide. Visit www.cansforhabitat.org to find out more. cans. Homerun slugger Sammy Sosa supported the program through a national public service announcement that aired approximately 43,000 times. Since 1976, Habitat for Human- ity has built more than 100,000 homes around the world. The organization estimates that over 3.5 million families are in need of simple housing in America. Those selected for Habitat homes invest hours in the home’s construction and pay a monthly mortgage. By recycling for Habitat for Humanity, you can help fulfill a family’s dream of owning a home. For more information on the ACBHHHprogram visit the Web site at www.cansforhabitat.org or call toll-free 1-888-798-CANS.
