Founded in 1976, Habitat for Humanity International has grown into a global movement with more than 1,500 local affiliates across the United States and more than 70 national organizations worldwide.
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Since its inception, Habitat has helped 6.8 million people obtain safe, decent, and affordable housing, providing them with strength, stability, and financial independence. Today, it stands as a leading force in the fight against substandard housing worldwide.

Habitat for Humanity Lakeside frequently gets questions from those wanting to learn more about our mission and work. Below, we address some of the most common questions and debunk popular myths.

Are Habitat houses free?

​No. Habitat partner families purchase their homes at an affordable price with a manageable mortgage that is geared to their adjustable gross income. Additionally, Habitat offers ongoing support to help ensure they stay on track with their payments.

In addition, each family contributes volunteer hours during the home-building process. These hours can be logged at the home building site or in our ReStore. By volunteering time, homeowners learn valuable skills and connect with other people and become part of a community. Families with one adult contribute 250 hours and families with two adults contribute 400 hours total. 

How do I start the homeowner process?

​Habitat selects partner families based on several key factors, including housing need, financial ability to repay, and commitment to the program. Each family is also required to donate a certain number of volunteer hours as part of the homeownership process. If you're interested, we encourage you to learn more and apply.
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Visit Become a Homeowner for details on the application process.

What are your core programs?

Our Home Buyer program, Home Repair program, which includes Aging in Place and Rock the Block, and our ReStore, which provides affordable shopping for building supplies and home goods, are our core programs.

Is the ReStore nonprofit?

Yes!  Your purchases help fund our programs. So do your donations of new or gently used furniture, home goods, and building materials. 

Do you pick up items for donation?

Yes, depending on the size of the donation. More information on donation pick up and an online donation pickup form can be found on the ReStore page.

How can I get involved?

​Habitat for Humanity Lakeside offers many ways to get involved, from volunteering and attending events to providing financial support. If you don’t find what you’re looking for on our website, call us at 920-458-3399 or email [email protected] for more information.