August 29, 2026

Media Advisory: Wichita Habitat for Humanity to Host Ground Blessing Ceremony for Pope Leo Village

Pope Leo Village Ground Blessing Ceremony graphic.

Media Advisory: Wichita Habitat for Humanity to Host Ground Blessing Ceremony for Pope Leo Village

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES ONLY

Wichita Habitat for Humanity is hosting a Ground Blessing Ceremony for Pope Leo Village at 9 a.m. on Thursday, September 10, located at 26th Street and Ash. The media and public are invited to join as we come together in faith and community to bless the land.

Pope Leo Village is a community-driven, nationwide movement, originally launched by a generous anonymous donor, built on the principles of service, compassion, and justice to expand access to affordable homeownership. Construction has begun since the beginning of July by Wichita Habitat for Humanity to completely rehabilitate eight homes for the Pope Leo Village in Sedgwick County. This project provides a unique opportunity for youth and young leaders across the area to put their faith into action through hands-on service.

By working alongside with families in Habitat’s Homeownership program, volunteers will gain invaluable construction skills, experience the true meaning of community service, and share the empowering journey of building a stable foundation for the future. By fostering these connections, the Pope Leo Village not only revitalizes homes but also builds a stronger, more united community for generations to come.

To ensure the safety and accessibility of the event, parking will be available on 25th Street, Minnesota Street, and Madison Avenue. Please do not block driveways or park directly on N. Ash Avenue.

Individuals can learn more about Pope Leo Village at wichitahabitat.org/PopeLeoVillage.

WHAT:
Wichita Habitat for Humanity Pope Leo Village Ground Blessing Ceremony

WHEN:
9 a.m.
Thursday, September 10

LOCATION:
26th Street & Ash (Enter 2654 N. Ash into your Google/Apple Maps)
Wichita, KS 67219

WHO:
Danielle Johnson, Executive Director, Wichita Habitat for Humanity
Representatives of Catholic Diocese of Wichita and faith organizations
Donors and sponsors
Felicia Saunders, Development Director, Wichita Habitat for Humanity
Christine Moser, Community Outreach Manager, Wichita Habitat for Humanity

RUN OF SHOW:
Remarks from Wichita Habitat for Humanity and sponsors
Remarks from local faith organizations
Pope Leo Village overview
Ground blessing

RSVP:
Media interested in covering the event should RSVP to Quang Nguyen, Marketing & Communications Manager at Wichita Habitat for Humanity, at quangn@wichitahabitat.org.

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About Wichita Habitat for Humanity

Wichita Habitat for Humanity is an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a non-profit organization that strives to create a world where everyone has access to safe and affordable housing. Since 1986, we've partnered with families in Wichita and Sedgwick County to build or improve their living situations. We achieve this by providing opportunities for homeownership through affordable mortgages, homebuyer counseling, and neighborhood revitalization initiatives. Our mission is to bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope. For more information, go to wichitahabitat.org.

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