Habitat for Humanity operates through 2,347 locally-governed affiliates worldwide with a strong emphasis on grassroots organizations and local autonomy.
Homeownership opportunities are made available to families unable to obtain conventional house financing. Habitat homeownerfamilies make a $500 earnest payment and contribute 300 - 500 hours of "sweat equity" on the constructionof their home or someone else's home. New homeowners must pay back the total cost of their homes in the form of a zero-percent interest, 25-year mortgage held by Habitat. Habitat is a Christian organization; as such, homeowners are chosen without regard to race, religion or ethnic group because Habitat believes that God's love extends to everyone. Habitat also welcomes volunteers from all faiths, or no faith, who actively embrace Habitat's goal of eliminating povertyhousing from the world. Habitat accepts no funds that carry an obligation that would limit Habitat's ability to proclaim its Christian witness.
Founded in 1983, Habitat for Humanity of Kent County is the third largest producing affiliate in the State of Michigan, out of 83 affiliates. The Kent County affiliate is leading the way in sustainable-design, or "green" homes, and has completed the nation's first 'LEED Certified Affordable Home' in October 2006. Of the 200 plus homes that HFHKC has built, they have only had three foreclosures. This fact speaks to the dedication of the families to achieve their goal and provide a better quality of life for their children. For more info, visit the Habitat's international website at www.habitat.org. For local information, visit www.habitatkent.org.