PHOENIX, Ariz. – Credit Union West has partnered with Habitat for Humanity for the West Valley to help build affordable housing for low-income families and to provide financial education to new home buyers. The credit union is contributing both funds and employee volunteers to help build one of more than 20 homes under construction in the El Mirage and Avondale areas. Habitat said future plans call for construction in the towns of Surprise and Peoria. Credit Union West ($262 million in assets, 30,000-plus members) is airing public service announcements on television promoting the Habitat program, which provides homes and zero-interest mortgage loans to qualifying families. Habitat homeowners are working families who want to purchase their first home but who cannot qualify for traditional mortgages. Credit Union West is also providing educational materials and financial education classes to Habitat families. Habitat has constructed 107 homes in the Phoenix metropolitan area over the last 17 years.