Raising friends. That’s the goal of Troy-Pike Habitat for Humanity’s second annual Gospel Singing, which begins at 1 p.m. today at Hephzibah Baptist Church in Troy.

A combination fund-raising and community outreach event, the gospel singing seeks to build a grass-roots network of support among faith-based people and churches who can share the common mission of Habitat for Humanity, which provides housing for people in need right here in Pike County.

It’s been a successful event in the past.

Last year, organizers say they more than tripled the organization’s annual support among churches after the event. Moreover, by simply passing the collection plate, Habitat gives individuals in the audience the chance to donate on a one-time basis to the cause.

All the while, participants are enjoying gospel music performed by a variety of acts.

At the heart of this effort, though, is the goal of building a network of support for a vitally important agency in our community. Habitat for Humanity, through the sweat equity of owners and the volunteer efforts of hundreds, provides low-cost housing to a selected few people in Pike County. So far, the group has dedicated 10 houses in Pike County. The need exists for double, even triple, that number of houses even today.

Through Habitat, funds could make the dreams of home-ownership a reality for more of our Pike County neighbors.

So take a little time this weekend to be a friend to Habitat. If you can, stop by the gospel singing; the music is sure to be at treat. If not, encourage your home church to support the Habitat for Humanity efforts. Even better, reach into your pocket and support Habitat as individuals and families. Because if organizers are right, by raising a few more friends, we’ll be able to raise a few more houses right here in Pike County.