Why We Build
Decent shelter is something we all need to thrive
At minimum wage, you have to work 61 hours each week in order to afford a modest 1-bedroom rental in Douglas County. And affording rent is just one part of the equation. Nearly three quarters of Omaha families earning less than $35,000/year are paying more than they can afford for housing, not leaving enough for other necessities like good nutrition, health care, transportation, education or saving for the future.
When affordable housing is out of reach for so many families, it creates instability in our communities, weakens our economy, and even impacts our health and educational success.
Through affordable homeownership families can:
- Provide stability for their children
- Gain improved health, physical safety and security
- Increase educational and job prospects
- Engage in their communities
To address the need for decent shelter in our area, Habitat Omaha works in many ways: building and renovating homes, repairing existing houses, taking down blighted structures, advocating for better laws and systems, and more. We work with families to help them acquire the access, skills and financial education necessary for them to be successful homeowners. By partnering with us, families seize the opportunity and possibility that quality, affordable housing represents.
Through shelter, we empower.