The Dalles Area and Mid-Columbia Habitat For Humanity affiliates have merged to become one. Columbia Gorge Habitat for Humanity will now build homes in Wasco, Hood River, and Klickitat counties. Local Habitat for Humanity officials say the merger will bring them a higher level of capability in seeking to help provide affordable housing, including the hiring of a part-time executive director. Work is underway on the 24th and 25th Habitat homes in the region, with three more home sites in The Dalles Wilson Street subdivision in the final stages of being purchased.