What is Habitat?

Habitat for Humanity is a world-wide organization dedicated to assisting families to have decent, affordable homes.

How does it work?

Through volunteer labour, efficient management and tax-deductible donations of money and materials, Habitat builds houses with the help of the homeowner (partner) families. Habitat houses are sold to partner families at no profit and financed with affordable, no-interest mortgages. The homeowners' monthly mortgage payments go into a revolving fund, which is used to build more houses.
Habitat for Humanity is not a give-away program. In addition to mortgage payments, each homeowner invests hundreds of hours of their own labour, called "sweat equity", into the building of their house and the houses of others.

Historical Background

Habitat for Humanity International  (HFHI) was founded in 1976 in Americus, Georgia by Linda and Millard Fuller. The program developed from the concept of "partnership housing", based on Christian principles where those in need of adequate shelter work side by side with volunteers from all walks of life to build simple, decent houses.
In 1984 Habitat's most famous volunteer, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, along with his wife, Rosalyn, participated in their first Habitat build project. Their personal involvement in Habitat's ministry brought the organization national visibility and sparked interest in Habitat's work across the nation.  Since then they have led an annual week-long Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter Work Project whereby hundreds of volunteers join them in a blitz build.

Habitat for Humanity Canada (HFHC) was established in 1985, with the formation of the first Canadian affiliate in Winkler, Manitoba. In early 1988 an HFHC national office was established, located in Waterloo, Ontario

Habitat for Humanity Canada

HFHC is a national, non-profit, faith-based organization working for a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. Its mission is to mobilize volunteers and community partners in building affordable housing and promoting homeownership as a means to breaking the cycle of poverty.

Habitat for Humanity Mississauga

Habitat for Humanity Mississauga (HFHM) was accredited by HFHC as an affiliate in 2005 and built its first house in 2009.  As with all the affiliates, while subscribing to the universal belief that every family should have a simple, decent home, it nevertheless operates independently in raising funds to address affordable housing needs in Mississauga.

Size and Scope

Habitat for Humanity has built more than 300,000 homes in 100 countries around the world. A new home is dedicated worldwide every 21 minutes.

Habitat for Humanity Canada has dedicated more than 1,000 homes from coast to coast since its inception. There are currently 72 affiliates addressing the issue of affordable housing.