Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity starts from a simple idea: families who need adequate housing can build it alongside volunteers and communities under terms that make it affordable. Founded in 1976, the international organization works in all 50 U.S. states and about 70 countries. Its vision of a decent place to live for everyone connects local projects with a global network.

The partnership-housing model took shape at Koinonia Farm near Americus, Georgia. Millard and Linda Fuller helped develop a nonprofit approach in which families took part in construction and paid an affordable mortgage; payments and donor support helped finance additional homes. That history explains why volunteering and the participation of future homeowners remain central to its work.

In the United States, families who partner with Habitat build their homes alongside volunteers and take on an affordable mortgage, subject to each local program’s criteria. Affiliates also work on construction, repairs, and home improvements, including initiatives for older adults. Availability, eligibility, and the application process vary by community, so the organization directs people seeking help to their local affiliate.

The work extends to community revitalization and disaster response, as well as programs for young people, veterans, and women interested in construction. Affiliates may offer volunteering at building sites and in educational activities, while national and international programs coordinate service trips and long-term partnerships. Each initiative depends on local needs and the opportunities available at the time.

Habitat ReStores bring together donated furniture, building materials, appliances, and other goods; inventory can change daily. Habitat says proceeds support its local work. For the public, ReStores are a place to look for reusable materials while contributing to housing projects. Availability, donation rules, and hours are set by each ReStore rather than a central store.

Habitat also takes part in public advocacy and partnerships with businesses, community groups, and faith organizations to expand affordable housing options. Its website brings together information about donating, volunteering, supporting housing policy, and finding a nearby affiliate. This combination of construction, repair, material reuse, and community action addresses both homes and the conditions that make access to them possible.

Habitat for Humanity International lists its operational headquarters at 322 W. Lamar Street in Americus, Georgia, and its administrative headquarters at 285 Peachtree Center Ave. NE, Suite 2700, in Atlanta. These are institutional addresses, not local offices for housing applications; people seeking help should contact their area affiliate. For general inquiries, the organization lists a toll-free number, another contact number, and publicinfo@habitat.org.