Habitat for Humanity Kokomo Community

HOMEOWNERSHIP PROGRAM: Families in need of a decent place to live build safe and affordable homes in partnership with us. Habitat houses are modestly sized. Thay are large enough for the homeowner familys needs but small enough to keep construction and maintenance costs affordable. By using the labor of volunteers and prospective homeowners, employing efficient building methods, keeping house sizes modest, using donated construction materials and appliances, and issuing no-profit loans, Habitat makes its houses affordable for low-income families to purchase. Affordable homeownership helps create the conditions that free families from instability, stress and fear and encourage self-reliance and confidence. Studies show that strong and stable households are foundational to childhood development and growth. When a home fosters-instead of hinders-health and safety, families can flourish. Owning an affordable home also allows homeowners to lift up their entire family by saving for their futures and investing in educational opportunities, bolstering job opportunities and career growth. During the fiscal year 2023, HfH of the Kokomo Community served more than 20 people through its long-term homeownership program.

FINANCIAL AND HOMEBUYER EDUCATION PROGRAMS: As part of the homeownership process, we believe financial education builds a more solid foundation for long-term personal success and helps alleviate any concerns or barriers on the path to homeownership. During these financial education classes, we cover topics such as budgeting; credit cards and credit reports; debt and loans; saving, investing, and planning for the future; emergency situations; and Habitat homeowner mortgages. A more in-depth understanding of these important concepts is a tool that can be used to build a better future.

HOME PRESERVATION PROGRAM: Our home preservation program is an outreach initiative that seeks to provide a wide range of opportunities for low- to moderate-income homeowners, including veterans and seniors who are struggling to maintain their homes because of age, disability or family circumstances. We partner with families to help them reclaim their homes with pride and dignity. The program allows families to stay in their home and avoid the uncertainty, trauna, and expense of moving. Projects consist of interior and/or exterior repairs intended to alleviate critical health, life, and safety issues or code violations. Volunteer teams work along with subcontractors under the direction of HfH of the Kokomo Community staff members to complete the repairs.