The Habitat for Humanity troops were at it again recently, this time enlisting the agricultural sector to help build storage sheds to provide storage for the Habitat homes that are built without garages.

Nine agricultural companies supported the first annual Ag Shed Building Challenge, providing a total of 13 teams and 120 volunteers at the May 24 building spree.

“Team Canola from the Manitoba Canola Growers Association were the Hammer for Hope Champions — completing a shed the fastest to our quality standards,” said Habitat spokesperson Kim Wilson. “Team Hammer Time from Cargill won the Best Team Spirit Award.”

The companies represented at the event included: Canadian Pacific, Canadian Canola Growers Association, Manitoba Pork Council/CPC National Traceability Program, Monsanto, Parrish and Heimbecker Ltd., Richardson International, and Wall Grain. Each team raised $2,500 in donations as an entry.

Habitat for Humanity builds homes for families in need, but the modest, energy-efficient homes are built without garages. The storage sheds are offered as storage space.

After being selected into the Habitat program and completing a minimum of 350 volunteer hours, homeowners purchase their homes at full market value through no money down, interest-free mortgages. Payments are set at 25 per cent of the family’s income rather than the property value.