About Us: (The "Seven Questions")

What is Habitat for Humanity? Fort Wayne Habitat for Humanity is one of 2,322 affiliates worldwide working at a grass-roots level to eliminate poverty housing. Contributed funds buy building materials, and donated labor builds new homes or sometimes rehabilitates existing ones. These homes are then sold at no profit and no interest to partner families. Mortgage payments are used to build additional homes.

Fort Wayne Habitat for Humanity is affiliated with Habitat for Humanity International. For more information on Habitat for Humanity International, visit their official web site.

How is Habitat for Humanity funded?
Funding comes from individuals, churches, corporations, foundations, and other community organizations moved by concern and compassion to help those in need. No-interest, no profit mortgage payments are also recycled to build additional houses. We also raise monies using our ReStore and our Recycling Can Drive. No government funds are used. If you would like to make a donation, click here.

Is my contribution tax-deductible? Yes, Fort Wayne Habitat for Humanity is incorporated as a tax-exempt, non-profit organization with 501(c)(3) status from the I.R.S. Click here to make a donation! How can I get involved? Most of what Fort Wayne Habitat does involves volunteers. In addition to construction volunteers, people are needed to help work with our partner families, run our ReStore, run can routes, and many other things. If you are interested in volunteering, take a moment to fill our our electronic volunteer form.

How are homeowners selected?
Families apply to the program by calling us here at Habitat for Humanity -- (260) 422-4828. Enrollment meetings are held each month. The Family Selection Committee chooses homeowners based on need, ability to pay the mortgage, and willingness to provide 400 hours of "sweat equity" to the Habitat program. Neither race nor religion is a factor in choosing families to receive homes.

Is Habitat involved in other activities?
For every house built in Fort Wayne, $2500 is set aside to fund building projects throughout the world.

What has Habitat accomplished in Fort Wayne?
The first Fort Wayne area Habitat house was completed in 1987. By the end of 2006, we had completed 104 homes and 8 rehabs. Typical homes have a single floor, 3 bedrooms, and are approximately 1,100 square feet. The cost of the home is approximately $57,000. 20 year mortgages are no-profit, no-interest with monthly payments that are approximately $325. (No two houses are identical, so mortgages do vary).

In 2001 Fort Wayne Habitat for Humanity purchased and established an office at 629 E. Washington Blvd. Fort Wayne. In addition an Executive Director was hired, moving the affiliate away from an all-volunteer run program. In 2007, we will build 12 houses as we continue our Christian mission of providing simple, decent housing for people in need.