About Our Website
This page has a little about the historical background, size and scope of organization, who controls and manages Habitat for Humanity Canada and how does Habitat for Humanity work. We hope you have learned somethings about us if you have any questions please contact usHistorical background
Habitat for Humanity International 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 homes.
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.
Habitat for Humanity Canada (HFHC) was born in 1985, with the formation of the first Canadian affiliate in Winkler Manitoba. In early 1988 an HFHC national office was established, which is currently located in Waterloo, Ontario.
Size and Scope of Organization
Habitat for Humanity has built more than 175,000 homes in 100 countries around the world. A new home is dedicated worldwide every 26 minutes.
Habitat for Humanity Canada has dedicated more than 700 homes from coast to coast since its inception. There are currently 64 affiliates in all 10 provinces and one territory, helping to eliminate poverty housing.
Who controls and manages Habitat for Humanity Canada?
The National Board of Directors determines policy and monitors operations. Board members are dedicated volunteers who are deeply concerned about the problems of poverty housing in Canada. The President and CEO directs the National Office with an administrative staff assisted by a core group of dedicated long-term and short-term volunteers.
How does Habitat for Humanity work?
Through volunteer labour, efficient management and tax-deductible donations of money and materials, Habitat builds and rehabilitates simple, decent 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.