VALDOSTA — As a necessary component in becoming a 21st Century Challenge Community, government officials and local organizations are forming a housing coalition with the goal of providing decent, affordable housing to families in need.

The Challenge is a Habitat for Humanity International initiative geared toward forming coalitions through local Habitat affiliates throughout the state. Together these initiatives are encouraging Habitat affiliates nationwide to set a date for the same purpose.

Clive Rainey, director of the 21st Century Challenge program for Habitat, attended the second meeting of the local coalition last week and was very impressed, said local Habitat Executive Director Ralph Jackson.