Home owners are offered a hand up, not a handout . Partnership means everyone, the more affluent and the poor, works together to solve the problem of in adequate housing. They help build their own house and those of other prospective Habitat homeowners, thus reducing costs while increasing pride of ownership and positive relationships. Non-government status Habitat does not accept government funds for construction or renovation of existing dwellings. Habitat does encourage governments at all levels to partner in the provisions of streets, utilities, land, or houses for rehabilitation - if no provisions violate Habitat principles.
Habitat mortgages are interest free and geared to the partnership family's ability to pay.
Our Beliefs All people have a right to decent housing. People need co-workers, not case workers. Sweat equity promotes self esteem and a sense of personal achievement. Building relationships and communities is as important as building houses - partnerships build strong communities. People living in inadequate housing need capital, not charity.