Frequently Asked Questions
Who are you and what do you do?
Habitat of Greater Richmond, Inc. is a faith-based not-for-profit organization that transforms lives and neighborhoods as we build affordable homes for ownership and advocate for affordable housing in the Richmond, IN area.
Does Habitat give houses to poor people?
No! Houses are not given to anyone. Habitat builds houses and then sells them to "partner families" through zero interest loans.
Is Habitat an arm of the government?
No! Habitat is an independent, nonprofit Christian housing ministry. It is not an arm of the government or any particular denomination. Habitat does however, accept government funds so long as they don’t affect Habitat’s ability to proclaim its Christian witness.
Was Habitat started by former President Jimmy Carter?
No! Habitat was started in 1976 in Americus, GA by the late Millard Fuller and his wife Linda. Former President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn are longtime Habitat supporters and volunteers who help bring national attention to our work.
What is your connection to Habitat for Humanity International?
We are an independently funded affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. Donations to Habitat International fund housing programs overseas and donations to Habitat of Richmond fund housing programs in the Richmond, IN area.
Who can volunteer for Habitat?
Anyone! We unite people across all races, nationalities, ethnic and religious backgrounds around the cause of decent, affordable housing for everyone.
Do you have to be a Christian to be a Habitat homeowner or volunteer?
No! Habitat was founded as, and is, a Christian ministry. However, homeowners are chosen without regard to race, creed, or nationality—following the requirements of the law as well as Habitat’s belief that God’s love extends to all. Habitat also welcomes volunteers from all faiths—or no faith—who embrace the goal of eliminating poverty housing.
Who can apply to own a Habitat home?
› Families currently renting homes with substandard conditions
› Families with incomes between 30% and 60% of the Richmond, IN area's median income
› Families willing to invest 350 “sweat-equity” hours per adult (limit 400 hours per family)
› Families living in the neighborhoods where we build are given first preference
If your interested in becoming a Partner Family click here for more information.
What makes Habitat homes affordable for low-income families?
› Community, faith, and corporate sponsorships
› Individual donations
› Volunteer labor
› Government funding of infrastructure
› An affordable mortgage
What kind of homes do we build?
Habitat of Richmond builds and renovates single-family homes. For a photo gallery of the houses we've built click here.
How can I obtain a homeownership application?
If you are interested in becoming a Partner Family, please call our office at (765) 962-5986 to learn when applications are being accepted. Or email us at
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.
How can I volunteer?
Individuals, skilled workers in the building trades, groups from companies, congregations, local organizations, and national service volunteers and interns can all lend a hand. Go to the Volunteer menu for more information.
How can I donate?
Individuals can send donations, including matching gifts, celebration gifts, and monthly pledges. Corporations, faith groups and local organizations can sponsor homes or send groups for team building. The building trades can arrange in-kind sponsorships of new materials needed in construction. You can also make your tax-deductible donation using our secure online donation form. Go to the Donate menu for more information.