Background Statement
ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND
Habitat for Humanity of La Plata County (HFHLPC) was approved in 1994 as an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. Our affiliate organization was formed to address the need for affordable housing in La Plata County. We have built over 70 homes since our inception.
Our mission is to provide homeownership to those with incomes between 30-80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The majority of La Plata County's workforce earns in this range including teachers, law enforcement, hospitality, firefighters and EMS, construction, and more. These people and their professions keep our community afloat, and it is our goal to make homeownership more accessible and security a reality.
For a family of four, the annual income range to qualify for the mortgage facilitated through Habitat of La Plata is between $33,150 and $88,400 which is too low for traditional home loans. Qualifying for a Habitat home based on this income, and with a capped mortgage, gives families the ability to channel their income to other expenses such as food, auto, transportation and medical needs.
Creating stronger communities and building relationships comes from not only giving families a place to call “home”, but also through the collaboration and teamwork of future homeowners, volunteers, and industry partners. It is our desire to offer a lift-up and not a hand-out, leading to improved self-esteem, sense of accomplishment and independence.
If you would like to learn more about Habitat For Humanity La Plata County, please visit our website at habitatlaplata.org.
HABITAT INTERNATIONAL BACKGROUND
The idea for Habitat for Humanity was born at Koinonia Farm, a racially integrated community founded in the 1940s outside of Americus, Georgia. At a time and place where segregation and discrimination were widespread, Koinonia stood as a courageous example of inclusion, equity, and shared purpose. It was here that the seeds of Habitat’s vision were planted, where people of diverse backgrounds came together to live, work, and support one another through a spirit of partnership and justice. These founding values of diversity and inclusion remain central to our mission today.