History Of Habitat For Humanity
How old is Habitat for Humanity?
- Habitat for Humanity International was founded in 1976.
- Lewiston Clarkston’s Affiliate was founded in 1991.
How did Habitat begin?
Habitat for Humanity International was founded in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller. Today, Habitat for Humanity is a true world leader in addressing the issues of poverty housing. The concept that grew into Habitat for Humanity International was born at Koinonia Farm, a small, interracial, Christian community outside of Americus, Georgia. Koinonia Farm was founded in 1942 by farmer and biblical scholar Clarence Jordan.
The Fullers first visited Koinonia in 1965. They had recently left a successful business and an affluent lifestyle in Montgomery, Alabama to begin a new life of Christian service.
At Koinonia, Jordan and Fuller developed the concept of "partnership housing." The concept centered on those in need of adequate shelter working side by side with volunteers to build simple, decent houses.
The houses would be built at no profit and interest would not be charged on the loans. Building costs would be financed by a revolving fund called “The Fund for Humanity.” The fund's money would come from the new homeowners' house payments, no-interest loans provided by supporters and money earned by fund-raising activities. The monies in the Fund for Humanity would be used to build more houses.
Through the work of Habitat, thousands of low-income families have found new hope in the form of affordable housing. Churches, community groups and others have joined together to successfully tackle a significant social problem – decent housing for all.
Today, Habitat for Humanity has built more than 300,000 houses, sheltering more than 1.5 million people in more than 3,000 communities worldwide.
Is Habitat religious?
We are a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian ministry founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a decent, safe and affordable place to live. We build with people in need regardless of race or religion. We welcome volunteers and supporters from all backgrounds.
How many homes has Lewiston - Clarkston Partners Habitat For Humanity built?
In Lewiston and Clarkston, we have completed 24 homes to date.
Where does the money to build houses come from?
Tax deductible donations from individuals, corporations, churches, and foundations.
Where do the materials to build houses come from?
Some of our materials are donated, and we purchase the remaining materials we need from local vendors.
How do you find the land in the LC Valley?
We purchase most of the land, and with some land being donated.
Who builds the houses?
Volunteers are the backbone of Habitat for Humanity, and it is through their dedication that each house gets built. There are individual volunteers, faith groups, businesses and civic groups who work under professional supervision alongside Habitat families to build homes.
