Frequently Asked Questions

SPS Habitat for Humanity (SPSHFH) is the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International and serves Thurston County.  It is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.  It is governed locally, raises funds locally and builds locally.  It is a housing ministry based on Christian principles and seeks to eliminate substandard, unsafe, unaffordable housing in Thurston County.

SPS Habitat for Humanity is focused on creating homes for ownership by local hardworking individuals and families that meet our income requirements.  They are not given away.  Habitat homes are sold to Partner Families at no profit.  Sales proceeds go back into our program, creating a revolving fund that Habitat uses to construct future homes for local families in need.

Habitat partner families qualify for our program by:

1. showing a demonstrated need for improved housing,
2. a willingness to partner with Habitat by committing to 200 hours of “sweat equity” helping to build their own homes,
3. and the ability purchase and pay for a Habitat home.

Yes.  SPSHFH is an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI), in much the same way a franchise works.  SPSHFH utilizes the brand, the program and support services from HFHI in carrying out its local mission.  SPSHFH focuses its homebuilding efforts within Thurston County, while Habitat for Humanity International carries out programs in countries all over the world.

In order to build these homes, Habitat utilizes  volunteers labor.  Anyone who is willing to lend their time and energy can help build a home.  When a volunteer works side by side with a future homeowner, they learn the true story of the need for affordable housing and of the strength and perseverance of their neighbors.  They learn that it is easy to change lives by spending some time outdoors, learning new skills and making new friends.

By using mostly volunteer labor, Habitat saves on expensive labor costs.  By partnering with our community  to secure land, secure donations of building materials, Habitat saves on the ever increasing costs of property and supplies.  Through the efforts of our generous sponsors and volunteers, we pass a significant savings on to the homeowners.

Since its founding in Thurston County in 1989, SPS Habitat  has built 50 homes!

SPS Habitat  can only continue it’s important mission with the support of generous volunteers and donors like YOU!  Volunteer or donate today to help Habitat continue to strengthen communities and transform lives.