Neighbors building homes for neighbors in Oakland County, Michigan.

Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope.

Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County is an independent 501c3 based in Pontiac, Michigan, and a covenant affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International based in Americus, Georgia.

Habitat for Humanity accomplishes its global mission through the work of local affiliates like Habitat Oakland County. Thousands of these affiliates operate in over 100 nations, mobilizing local resources to respond to the need for safe, decent, affordable housing "around the corner and down the block." Local affiliates are able to adapt the Habitat for Humanity housing partnership model to local climate, customs, needs, and resources.

In Oakland County, Michigan, Habitat for Humanity serves customers who are low-income, do not qualify for standard bank financing, and who may reside in substandard rental housing (or live with relatives for economic reasons). Home buyers complete courses in household budget and maintenance, save a $1,000 down payment, agree to pay monthly affordable mortgage payments, and volunteer 300 hours of "sweat equity" before becoming homeowners.

Partners normally build or rehab three- or four-bedroom homes of 900 to 1200 square feet. Donors and volunteers cover costs and provide most labor. Habitat for Humanity then sells the homes at appraised value or total construction cost (whichever is lower) at no profit and zero interest. Homeowners pay the mortgage directly to Habitat Oakland County. Mortgage revenue seed funds new building programs in the county. Habitat Oakland County homeowners normally pay between $400 to $500 per month for their mortgage, taxes, and insurance.

Habitat Oakland County "tithes" one global home construction project for each home it builds in the local community. Each time a new project gets under way in a community like Madison Heights, Pontiac, or Southfield, Habitat Oakland County sends a check for $4500 to an affiliate in a developing nation. Those funds are often adequate to build a home in the nation to which they are sent. To date, Habitat Oakland County's partners have supported construction of almost 100 homes in developing nations.