Frequently Asked Questions
Does Habitat for Humanity International build many houses?
Habitat for Humanity International has built 250,000 houses, to date. It is the 17th largest home builder in the United States.
Does Habitat for Humanity International build houses only in the United States?
No, Habitat is in 100 countries, more than half the countries in the world.
How large is an average Habitat house?
An average Habitat house encompasses 1,100 square feet of living space, is held together with 20,000 nails and contains 650 pieces of lumber.
How does Habitat work?
Partnership is the guiding principle of Habitat's work. Building a Habitat home requires a partnership between those willing to work as volunteers, individuals and organizations willing to make a donation of money of materials, and Habitat homeowners willing to invest 350 to 500 hours of "sweat equity" to the construction of their home or a future Habitat home. Homeowners make a small down payment for the house and then make monthly mortgage payments over a 20 to 30-year period at no interest. Habitat uses the income from mortgage payments to finance additional homes.
How is a family chosen to live in a Habitat House?
A Family Selection Committee comprised of Habitat Board members and dedicated, compassionate Island neighbors reviews all applicants and follows a non-discriminatory selection process based on housing need, ability to repay the loan, credit history, personal and professional references, and a willingness to partner with Habitat. As a result of this process, a family is selected for the house to be built.
What can you do?
Habitat for Humanity of Martha's Vineyard relies solely on the support of individuals. You can make the Island a better place to live or visit by eliminating inadequate housing. Donations are welcome in the form of land, materials, equipment, services and financial assistance. Habitat for Humanity of Martha's Vineyard is incorporated as a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. You can help by volunteering your time towards the construction of houses, office-related work, making a donation of land or money, or by simply spreading the word. Your involvement does make a difference.