Mission Statement
OUR PURPOSE:
Habitat for Humanity is an ecumenical, Christian ministry whose purpose is to build homes and communities in partnership
with low-income families within Greater Miami.
OUR TASKS:
Our tasks are twofold: 1) To provide home ownership opportunities to low-income families in all of Miami's communities
of need by building and renovating modest homes with family partners and providing them with interest-free loans for the
purchase of these homes and 2) To provide opportunities to all people of conscience to volunteer and to otherwise support
the building of homes and communities in partnership with low-income families.
OUR GOALS:
- To witness to the Word of God and the love of Jesus Christ for all persons through our words and actions.
- To follow Biblical teachings in our attitudes and actions.
- To build bridges among all economic and ethnic segments of our community by establishing new relationships, a sense of
community, and a renewed commitment to "the common good."
- To welcome participation from all individuals, groups, or organizations who desire to join with Miami Habitat because
of their shared concern and compassion for those in need.
- To be a financially responsible non-profit ministry that raises money from those who share our vision and to spend the
money raised with integrity, community accountability, and for the specific purpose intended by the donors.
- To select families for home ownership based on their need, willingness to be a full partner in the Habitat program,
and ability to repay the interest-free loan in support of the Habitat ministry. Selection will be made without
consideration of race or creed.
- To maintain a mutually beneficial nurturing friendship with each family by ongoing contact and instruction in the
areas of budgeting, financial planning, home maintenance, etc.
- To support the work of Habitat ministries in other communities as our resources allow, by contributing a tithe (10%)
of undesignated financial contributions.
Description
What is Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami ?
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami is an ecumenical Christian ministry which builds homes in partnership with
low-income families in need of a decent place to live. Miami Habitat was formed in 1989 and is in the top twenty of over 2,000
Habitat affiliates nationwide. This ministry is open to all persons who desire to work to eliminate poverty housing. With
all classes of people working together, Miami Habitat hopes to build new relationships and a sense of community as well
as decent homes.
How are homes built?
Habitat purchases land and materials with donations from individuals, churches, service groups, businesses and
foundations. Government funds are not accepted for the construction of houses; Habitat does seek government support in land
acquisition and infrastructure improvements. The homebuilding effort is heavily dependent upon volunteer labor. Also,
homeowners invest hundreds of sweat equity hours in the construction of their homes and the homes of other Habitat homeowners and
make a 3% down payment to Habitat. Homeowner mortgage payments are channeled back into the construction of additional
homes.
Where does Miami Habitat build homes?
Miami Habitat has built over 600 homes in the low-income neighborhoods of West Perrine, Liberty City, South Miami,
Goulds, Homestead, South Miami Heights, Overtown, and Little Haiti.
Are contributions tax-deductible?
Yes. Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami is an incorporated, non-profit organization and is tax-exempted under section
501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Of each dollar raised, 90% is invested in program services, 7% in
administration, and 3% in fundraising.
How much do the homes cost?
The homes are sold on a no-profit basis and cost about $105,000. Applicants must be able to provide an initial down
payment of about $1,500 and pay a no-interest mortgage payment of approximately $600 to $800 a month.
How are homeowners selected?
A family selection committee reviews all applicants and follows a non-discriminatory selection process, based on housing
need, ability to repay the loan, and willingness to partner with Miami Habitat.
How can I help Miami Habitat?
You can help by volunteering your time towards construction or office-related tasks or making a donation of land,
materials, or money. Your involvement does make a difference. Give us a call at (305) 634-3628 if you would like to help.
