Habitat for Humanity - Forsyth County HFH of

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. They are large enough for the homeowner family's 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 houses sizes modest, using donated construction materials, and issuing low fixed or zero rate 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 child 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 fiscal year 2023, Habitat for Humanity of Forsyth County served 11 families through its long-term homeownership program and completed 14 repairs for seniors in existing homes. 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 of 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. Overall, Habitat of Humanity of Forsyth County conducted 28 financial and homebuyer workshops during fy 2023. Youth empowerment program: for students between the ages of 12-17 to learn life skills, financial literacy, explore college choices, and provide opportunities they might not otherwise be able to experience; 38 families benefited from this program and 4 other families benefited from financial literacy classes. Habitat Forsyth also operates a retail establishment (restore) that sells donated materials and furniture to the public. In addition, Habitat also performs repairs for low-income persons who own their home but cannot afford the repairs.