How does Habitat work?

●  Habitat is not a give-away program. Because most labor and some materials are donated, the cost is less than a conventional home and, thus, more affordable.

●  Partner families purchase the homes and land through affordable, zero-interest mortgages (typically 30-year mortgages).

●  Volunteers construct homes in partnership with families who invest "sweat equity" in building their own homes.

●  Individuals, corporations, churches, and others provide financial and volunteer support.

 Where is Habitat at work?

●  In Winneshiek County, across Iowa, and in some 2,100 affiliates in more than 70 countries

●  Since its 1976 founding, Habitat for Humanity has helped more than 62 million people build or improve the place they call home.

●  Since its founding in 1992, Winneshiek County Habitat for Humanity (WCHFH) has built 35 homes throughout the county, specifically in Burr Oak, Calmar, Castalia, Decorah, Fort Atkinson, Freeport, Ossian, Ridgeway, and Spillville. WCHFH’s 36th project will be the relocation and renovation of a single-family home in Ridgeway in 2025.

How does a family qualify?

●  Need: The partner family lacks adequate housing and is unable to afford a conventional home loan.

●  Ability to pay: Adult family members must have a stable income and history of financial responsibility. They must have sufficient income to pay expected mortgages, taxes, and insurance. Generally, no more than 40% of annual income should go toward housing.

●  Willingness to partner: Each adult partner family member contributes 150 hours of "sweat equity" to their home.