HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF WISCONSIN RIVER AREA INC

Habitat for Humanity of Wisconsin River Area strives to empower families, transform lives and redefine what is possible. We believe everyone deserves and needs a decent place to live that is healthy and safe, to build a better life. We provide families with the opportunity to own a home, make necessary repairs, and purchase goods for their home at an affordable rate. Most of the work is completed by volunteers to keep the costs down for the families.

The Habitat Homeownership Program offers low-income families the opportunity to build their own home! Habitat works alongside volunteers to build quality affordable, energy-efficient homes in partnership with local families in need. Each homeowner is required to put at least 250 hours of “sweat equity” into their future home, building a sense of pride and the opportunity to learn new skills. Families also complete at least 50 hours of homebuyer education to prepare them for the responsibilities of homeownership. At the completion, Habitat provides them with a zero-interest affordable mortgage based on their income. It is truly a “hand up, not a handout” program designed to build strength, stability and self-resilience for families seeking to build a stronger foundation for their children’s future.

Habitat Repairs addresses critical issues in existing homes that are threatening the health, safety and accessibility of elderly and disabled residents. Similar to the homeownership program, clients are asked to repay at least a portion of the cost of materials through a no-interest loan, and to participate alongside volunteers as much as they are able. This not only helps to preserve existing housing stock but also builds connections at every avenue of our community. We are partnered with area caregivers and home health agencies to ensure that every home is a safe, healthy and accessible place to Age in Place.

Habitat ReStores are so much more than just a fundraising arm. Every day we take in donations of new and gently used tools, building materials, home furnishings and appliances so that local residents can make affordable home improvements. Each year we divert more than 600 tons of reusable materials from landfills. We also provide home goods for area homeless families transitioning out of shelters.

Homebuyer Education is offered as a free service to low-income families in our service area. That includes financial coaching, home maintenance workshops, and even homeowner safety training, all designed to empower clients by ensuring their success as they build pride in their homes and community.

Last but not least, Habitat for Humanity of Wisconsin River Area is proud to be a certified Veterans Build organization. Each year we host veterans build and honor events to serve those who have served, and we are committed advocates for veteran housing issues within our community.