Habitat for Humanity, Habitat Re-Store, Red Deer, Alberta

What Is HABITAT FOR HUMANITY CANADA?
A hand up, not a handout...

The Habitat for Humanity - Red Deer Affiliate was founded in 1994 and subsequently built its first two homes in Delburne, followed by a period of inactivity from 1996 to 1998. From 1998 to 2005, the affiliate saw a period of steady growth, with the building of 9 more homes, and the opening of the Restore.

Habitat for Humanity is an independent, non-profit Christian housing program dedicated to the elimination of substandard and poverty housing by building homes in partnership with families in need. Homeowners contribute 500 hours of "sweat equity" to the construction of their own homes and then repay a long-term, interest-free mortgage. Mortgage costs are kept low because of volunteer labour and generous donations of funds and building materials.

HABITAT'S MISSION:

To provide simple, decent, affordable housing to those who would not qualify nor be able to afford a conventional mortgage. But, our job does not stop there. We work with the families to help them become successful homeowners in whatever way is appropriate for them.

How does it work?

Habitat for Humanity is not a give-away program. In addition to mortgage payments, each homeowner invests hundreds of hours of their own labour, called "sweat equity", into the building of their house and the houses of others.

Habitat houses are affordable because no down payment is required and no interest is charged on the 20 year mortgage.

How are families chosen?

To become a Habitat homeowner, we look at three main criteria;

1.) Need

The family's income must be below Canada Customs and Revenue Agency poverty level
Their existing living conditions are below acceptable criteria related to cost, safety and space

2.) Willingness to partner

The family must contribute 500 hours of sweat equity towards building their own home, other homes or other Habitat activities

3.) Ability to carry a Habitat mortgage

The family's earned income is adequate to cover the mortgage payment and other expenses that come with home ownership

How are the homes built?

Habitat builds the home with volunteer labour and discounted material and services. Fundraising helps offset expenses of material/services and land when funding is not available through donations. Financial support is received from individuals, corporations, and service groups in the community.

How do the mortgages work?

Habitat is the mortgage holder and mortgage payments are recycled back into building more homes (a revolving fund). Families hold a no interest mortgage based upon the discounted appraised value of the home. Habitat has first buyback options on the homes.

With over 200,000 homes in over 70 countries (940 homes in Canada) Habitat understands the impact that decent, affordable housing can have on a family. Childrens' marks increase, they are healthier, happier and there is less stress in the family. A sense of pride and dignity is maintained throughout as the family is involved and participating in the process.

Come and join this ministry as we work toward making eliminating poverty housing. For more information call the Habitat Red Deer office at (403) 309-0998.

For more information about Habitat for Humanity please visit out National Habitat website at: www.habitat.ca.