Lending a Hand Up, Not a Hand Out!
The primary goal of Habitat for Humanity is to eliminate insufficient housing and homelessness in Cape Girardeau. We do this by partnering with families and individuals to build decent, affordable homes. By providing each individual with the solid foundation of homeownership, we create the opportunity of prosperity for generations to come.
Habitat is not a giveaway program. Habitat houses are sold to eligible partner families at no profit, with affordable and supportive financing, on a 0% interest loan. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds and occasionally rehabilitates simple, decent houses with the help of the designated homeowner families.
Individuals & families wanting to apply for a Habitat for Humanity home should meet the following criteria:
NEED FOR SHELTER – You need to demonstrate you are in need of housing and are currently living in overcrowded, temporary, or substandard housing; or that you are at risk of losing housing for any reason.
WILLINGNESS TO PARTNER – You need to be willing to complete specified amount of “sweat equity” hours of construction on other homes, as well as your own home.
ABILITY TO PAY - Your family has a steady source of income and can demonstrate financial responsibility. Habitat for Humanity will sell the house to you at cost of land and materials. You will have an interest free loan repayable over twenty years. Average monthly payments include homeowners insurance, and property taxes.
To schedule an application, please call (573) 334-9728.
Monthly, the Family Selection Committee solicits applicants for Partner Families throughout Cape Area, whose income is between 25% and 50% of the median.
Applicants must be legal residents and have lived in Cape Area for at least one year. Families are selected based on their need, ability to pay and willingness to partner with Habitat.
Selected families who are successful in completing the requirements will receive a no-interest mortgage on a house built to accommodate their family size and budget.
Questions and Answers
Q. I am self employed. How would I verify my income?
A. You must use your income tax return as proof.
Q. What type of credit rating is acceptable for your program?
A. Your credit rating does not have to be perfect, but it must be decent (with focus on utility and current credit payments). We would prefer no recent bankruptcies or in process divorces.
Q. Once I am qualified for the program, and notified, how long do I have to complete my first 25 hours?
A. Your hours must be done in a timely manner. Half of your hours must be completed within a year of being approved.
