Habitat for Humanity, Intl. is a nonprofit, nondenominational Christian housing organization. They welcome all people to join them as they build simple, decent, affordable houses in partnership with those who lack adequate shelter. Since 1976, Habitat has built more than 50,000 homes with families throughout the United States and another 100,000-plus homes in communities around the world. Now at work in 92 countries, they are building a house every 26 minutes. By 2005, Habitat homes will be sheltering one million people.

These homes are not simply given to the homeowners. They must pass a thorough screening process to be sure they’ll have adequate income to make regular payments on their no-interest loan. They must have a decent credit rating and go through a financial counseling course. Also, they contribute hundreds of hours of their own labor toward the construction of the home – what is called “sweat equity.” By the time the home is built they truly feel like owners, and the work and love put into their home is reflected in their pride and commitment to maintaining it.