To learn more about our Habitat affiliates visit www.seattle-habitat.org or www.habitatekc.org

WHO WE ARE

Habitat for Humanity is an international non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating poverty housing and to making decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. Since 1986, the Seattle/South King County (SKC) affiliate has completed 137 homes locally which have sheltered over 400 children and 200 adults. Since 1988 the East King County (EKC) affiliate has built over 115 homes which have sheltered over 115 families including 251 children. We are just two of nearly 2,000 affiliates worldwide.

HOW HABITAT WORKS

Habitat makes homeownership possible for hardworking, low-income families by selling homes at cost with a no-profit, no interest mortgage. Thousands of volunteers and supporters who donate their time, money, and/or materials, help make this initiative a success.

Partner families invest up to 500 "sweat equity" hours to construct their new home, thus reducing costs, increasing pride of ownership, and teaching home maintenance skills. Families are selected without regard to race, religion or national origin, based on three criteria: 1) Demonstrated financial need 2) Willingness to partner with Habitat through "sweat equity" 3) Ability to repay a no-profit, no interest mortgage.

In addition, we tithe 10% of our unrestricted funds to support Habitat home construction around the world. To date we have helped build over 425 houses internationally.

FINANCING - FUNDING - PARTNERSHIP

Habitat relies on the generosity of businesses, foundations, civic groups, faith communities and individuals to work in partnership with low-income families to strengthen communities. Habitat Seattle/South King County also operates a Home Improvement Outlet which accepts donations of new and gently used materials from manufacturers, retail store overstock and building contractors. These items are sold at up to 50% off retail prices with proceeds supporting the mission of housing people in need.

There is always room within Habitat for additional supporters and advocates to join the generous citizens who share the cost of making Habitat a success. We require no down payment from our families, and mortgage payments - never more than 30% of the family's income - are recycled through the Fund for Humanity to build more houses.

VOLUNTEER

Ending substandard housing requires the energy and time of many volunteers. We welcome volunteers of all skill levels and interests who want to make a difference in the community. Most of our volunteer positions do not require previous experience; you can volunteer to serve on a committee, for a construction project, at the Home Improvement Outlet, or at our offices.

GIVING TO HABITAT

Habitat is able to offer homes at far below market rate due to the generous donations of materials from individuals and organizations in the community and through financial contributions. We depend on your support. Please, get involved! Become a Build-a-Thon participant, support a volunteer, or become an advocate for affordable housing - you can help keep the excitement building!

AFFORDABLE HOUSING RESOURCES

Affordable Housing Overview

Websites:
Build Louder!
Nonprofit Housing