Habitat for Humanity

What is the mission of Habitat for Humanity?
To eliminate substandard housing locally and worldwide.

How did Habitat begin?
Millard Fuller was a very successful attorney in Georgia who felt it was a shame that a working family in the richest country in the world couldn't afford to own a home. In 1976, he and his wife Linda sold everything and started Habitat for Humanity, Former President Jimmy Carter and his wife have been longtime supporters and volunteers in bringing national attention to the Habitat organization and have assisted in building many homes. Lawrence County Habitat became an affiliate in 2005.

Is Habitat religious?
Habitat is an interfaith housing ministry dedicated to providing decent, affordable housing for anyone in need regardless of race, religion, or ethnic group. Habitat welcomes volunteers, employees and homeowner applicants of any race, religion, or ethnic group.

How many homes has LC Habitat built?
Lawrence County Habitat for Humanity has provided four partner families with the opportunity to be home owners in Lawrence County. Three in Bedford and our newest home in Mitchell.

Where does the money to build homes come from?
Tax-deductible donations from individuals, corporations, churches, and foundations.

Does a Habitat home negatively affect property values in our neighborhoods?
No, just the opposite. Habitat homes have proven to increase property values in neighborhoods and communities where they are located.

How do you find the land?
Individuals and corporations donate land, some with houses that need to be torn down and replaced.

Where do the materials to build come from?
Typically, 30% of our materials are donated through national partnerships with corporations. We purchase the remaining materials we need from local vendors.

Are these houses given away to the families?
No, Lawrence County Habitat for Humanity provides a hand up, not a hand out. Our partner families are not only required to conduct "Sweat Equity" hours working alongside the volunteers, but must also pay a 0% mortgage for the cost of the build.

How much does a Habitat house cost a homeowner?
Prices vary depending on the cost of labor, land and materials. Because Habitat homes are built using donated land, materials, and volunteer labor, housing costs are kept affordable.

How are the homeowners chosen?
Applications are solicited through advertisements, faith groups, and city agencies. Applicants must have inadequate housing, meet income guidelines, and be willing to participate in our program.

Who builds the houses?
Individual volunteers, faith groups, businesses and civic groups work under professional supervision alongside Habitat families to build homes.

What does Habitat do with the mortgage money?
The mortgage money returns to our building fund to help build more homes for more families.