Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build hope, communities, homes and a promising future for low-income families. Habitat Greenville relies on the support of Greenville County corporations, churches, organizations and volunteers to fulfill our mission towards breaking the cycle of generational poverty. Lack of affordable housing forces low-income families to live in substandard rental conditions, usually in unsafe neighborhoods. Habitat applicants are living below the standard poverty level and earn 30-60% of the area median income. These families often pay a large percentage towards rent and energy costs for substandard housing; leaving little money for food, health care, transportation and education. Habitat homes are built energy-efficient and Habitat homeowners pay a 0% mortgage held in-house by Habitat. This enables our families to build equity and change their financial trajectory. In turn, families are more secure and neighborhoods and communities are strengthened and improved. Homeownership also eliminates the need for families to move from rental to rental seeking lower housing costs, resulting in educational stability for children. According to a study by Harvard University, children raised in homes owned by their families are 116% more likely to pursue post-high school education! Habitat applicants must be employed for at least one year, complete an educational program provided at no cost to prepare for homeownership including courses such as budgeting, home maintenance, being a good neighbor and more. A minimum of 200 "sweat equity" hours must be completed; including work on their home, other Habitat homes and volunteering at non-profit organizations. We believe that every person has something to contribute and gain from creating communities in which all people have a safe, decent and affordable place to live. Habitat provides an opportunity to serve others by bringing people together to truly make a difference families' lives.
