How Jimmy Carter's 1992 South Florida Visit Left A Lasting Impact On Affordable Housing

Former President Jimmy Carter , widely celebrated for his humanitarian efforts after leaving the White House, made a significant mark on South Florida in 1992 when he joined Habitat for Humanity to help build homes in Miami's Liberty City.

"What he really enjoyed was grabbing a hammer, going with Roselyn to the job sites, and literally helping build houses," said Mario Artecona, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami. "He did that well into his 90s."

Carter's visit brought national attention to affordable housing issues in Miami and boosted Habitat for Humanity's profile as a credible solution to the housing crisis.

"Here in Liberty City, dozens of homes were built with the help of hundreds of volunteers, and it really brought attention to the problems of affordable housing in Miami," Artecona said. "It shone a positive light on a community that had not been seen in the best light."

During the 1992 project, Carter's efforts helped construct 14 homes, planting a seed that Artecona says has grown into a transformative movement.