Habitat Families
Successful candidates are people whose curent shelter is inadequate; who demonstrate an ability and willingness to partner with Habitat and who show they can pay for their home.
Candidates must live in sub-standard housing, have income which falls within established guidelines and be unable to obtain a conventional mortgage. They must provide 500 “SWEAT EQUITY” hours, be US citizens, be residents of Cumberland County for 12 months and be able to save enough money to pay for closing costs (currently around $1,600).
Habitat houses vary in size depending on the needs of the family. They are either 1064 sq. ft. with three bedrooms, or 1164 sq.ft. with 4 bedrooms, and provide basic, decent, well built homes for people who view them as “heaven” after living in sub-standard housing and not being able to see their way to purchasing a decent home.
Upon becoming accepted for a new home, families are assigned a “nurturer” (mentor) from the affiliate who will work with them to help them accomplish their home ownership goals. This relationship lasts from the time of acceptance, through moving into their new home, and for a year or more after.
The months betwen being accepted as a Habitat Family and moving into the new home are busy ones. All members of the family participate in accruing the family’s 500 “sweat equity” hours. Young children are not allowed on the building site for safety reasons, but they “post” the family hours on the charts in the Habitat office, help make plans, and can help in planting flowers and similar activities after construction is finished.
Owning a decent, affordable home does wonderful things for people. They develop a sense of security, pride and dignity. Many new homeowners go on to further their education, find better jobs, and continue to volunteer their time with Habitat to help others become home owners also.
APPLYNOW
Homeownership is a big part of the American dream. At Cumberland County Habitat for Humanity, we are a proud partner with individuals and families who are living in substandard housing conditions who want a safe and comfortable place to call home.
We invite and encourage you to see if you qualify today.Apply Now
DONATENOW
Your donations furniture, large and small working appliances,books, dishes, bedding, toys, tools, yard equipment, office furniture, and other such items are welcome.
Click Here to schedule a pickup request of large or heavy items. We ask that you please bring donations during our normal business hours.Donate Now
VOLUNTEERNOW
When most people think about volunteering for Cumberland County Habitat for Humanity, the image that comes to mind is one of building houses.
Sure, construction is the most visible part of our mission, but we have so many more ways that individuals and groups can give of their time to Cumberland County Habitat for Humanity.Volunteer Now