Habitat
for Humanity International is a non-profit, Christian organization
whose main objective is to eliminate substandard and poverty housing
worldwide. It was founded in 1976 with the conviction that every man,
woman, and child should have a simple, decent, and affordable place to
live. Since then, Habitat for Humanity has built and rehabilitated more
than 150,000 homes for families in need. Although a Christian
organization, Habitat for Humanity maintains an open door policy: All
who desire to be a part of this work are welcome regardless of
religious preference or background.
All Habitat
homes are built using volunteer labor. All building materials are
either donated by local businesses or paid for by financial
contributions. However, a Habitat home is not a hand-out. Homes are sold
to homeowner families--called partner families--with no profit included
in the sale price and no interest charged on the mortgage. Mortgage
lengths also vary from seven to 30 years, making the ownership of a
home an affordable reality for low-income families.
Habitat for Humanity in Lee County
Since
the founding of Habitat for Humanity in Lee County, AL in 1989, nearly
40 homes have been built or renovated for families in need.