Frequently Asked Questions
Are Habitat for Humanity Houses Free?
No. Families who are in need of safe, decent affordable housing apply to North Platte Area Habitat for Humanity to be accepted into the local homeownership program. Each Partner Family pays a mortgage that includes the principle loan amount, the annual homeowner’s insurance premium and annual property taxes.
What are the criteria to apply for a Habitat for Humanity house?
- Must be in need of better housing
- Must have the ability to make monthly mortgage payments of $450-$550* (but aunable to receive a conventional loan)
- Must be willing to partner with NPAHFH to build their house and the ability to complete 400 hours of sweat equity
- Must currently live and/or work in North Platte, NE area for at least a year.
Did former U.S. President Jimmy Carter start Habitat for Humanity?
While President and Mrs. Carter are Habitat’s most famous volunteers and have worked tirelessly since 1984 to help families build houses and to raise awareness of the need for affordable housing, Habitat was founded by Millard and Linda Fuller in 1976.
The idea that became Habitat for Humanity first grew from the fertile soil of Koinonia Farm, a community farm outside of Americus, Georgia, founded by farmer and biblical scholar Clarence Jordan. There in the early ’70s, Jordan and the Fullers developed “partnership housing.” The idea centered on those in need of adequate shelter working side by side with volunteers to build decent, affordable houses at no profit. To build more homes, new homeowners’ house payments would be combined with no-interest loans provided by supporters and money earned by fundraising.
In 1973, the Fullers took the concept to Zaire, now the Democratic Republic of Congo, and launched a successful house-building program. After three years, they returned to the United States and founded Habitat for Humanity International.
Does Habitat for Humanity have houses available upon request?
No. Habitat for Humanity Partner Families build their own house as well as those of their neighbors.
How long does it take to complete a Habitat for Humanity house?
The time frame may vary based a number of factors including weather, availability of materials and the number of volunteers the Partner Families bring to work on the house.
Do I have to have construction skills to be selected as a Partner Family or to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity?
No. We welcome people with any skill level to apply or volunteer with us on the build site, even beginners! On-site construction leaders train volunteers in all aspects of building. You do have to be at least 16 years old to work on a Habitat construction site.
Is Habitat for Humanity a Christian organization?
Yes, we are a global nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing organization. All who desire to be a part of this work are welcome, regardless of religious preference or background. We have a policy of building with people in need regardless of race or religion. We welcome volunteers and supporters from all backgrounds.
Where does North Platte Area Habitat for Humanity get its funding?
NPAHFH receives funding from the mortgages paid in by current Partner Families. Funding also comes from members of our Carpenter Club who donate to each house built in our community. We also receive funding in the form of grants and do annual fund-raising events. Donations are always welcome to advance our work and we appreciate your financial support. Thanks to the support of people like you we are able to provide safe, decent affordable housing to families in need in our community. It takes all of us doing whatever we can to create a world where everyone has a decent place to call home.