FAQs

Is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity Jimmy Carter?

Despite their high profile and impassioned public support for our national organization and its mission, former President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Roslyn Carter remain occasional and humble construction volunteers, giving of their time like thousands of others across the country to help worthy, hard-working people attain the dream of home ownership.

Is there a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity right here in Sonoma County?

Yes, there is a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity in Sonoma County! The good news is our organization enjoys a high profile and tremendous brand identity on a national and international level. The not-so-good news: that high profile tends to obscure the fact that the organization is comprised of thriving local affiliates—like the one here in Sonoma County!

How long has the local Sonoma County affiliate been around for?

Since our founding in 1984, we have helped 48 families move into new, affordable homes, which they had the unique and important pleasure of helping to build. That is a pace of slightly more than one home per year. In 2019, we completed 15 homes, including 9 cottages for for households displaced by the Sonoma County wildfires of October 2017. And in 2020 we completed two homes in Graton.

How do Habitat homeowners qualify for assistance from Habitat for Humanity?

Homeowners are carefully screened when they apply for assistance. A Habitat homeowner’s income must be within 50%-80% of the median household income in Sonoma County to qualify for a purchase. Homeowners are expected to meet employment, income and labor requirements for participation in the program.

How does Habitat for Humanity match homes to the families who will become homeowners?

To the degree possible, the size and scale of homes are matched to the family who will become its owners. That means enough bedrooms so all children can have a place for productive work and rest, a large enough kitchen for everyone to enjoy family meals, but at a price point they can afford.

How does Habitat for Humanity homes help restore neighborhoods and increase home prices?

Our goal is not only to help individual families but to upgrade entire neighborhoods with new homes occupied by proud and responsible owners. Our preference to build on blighted properties and empty lots helps ensure that every Habitat for Humanity home will enhance the collective life of the community. In addition, we employ the latest green building practices that help maintain value and contribute to a sustainable future.

Does the local Habitat for Humanity affiliate have a thrift store in Santa Rosa?

Our “ReStore” on Piner Road puts a unique twist on the traditional thrift store, with a major focus on home improvement items. That means we accept donations of a wide variety of items, from building supplies to cabinets to flooring to tools and a whole lot more. Want to do good and get a receipt for your tax-deductible donation? Come see us from Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Do you use both unskilled and professional labor to get your homes built?

Yes, our unskilled volunteers need professionals beside them, handling the jobs only professionals can do. Come be part of this movement—become a Habitat volunteer!

Has there ever been a foreclosure on a Habitat for Humanity home in Sonoma County?

There has never been a foreclosure on a Habitat for Humanity home in Sonoma County. We trust that speaks for itself and is perhaps the most telling indicator of all on what this program means for the families involved in it, and the many volunteers and donors who make it all possible.

What is the cost of a Habitat home?

Because of donated land and volunteer labor, we are able to reduce the cost of building our homes. Our construction costs are additionally offset by in-kind donations. Many companies generously donate equipment and services to us. The cost of the home depends on the area and the type of homes we are building.

How old do I have to be to work onsite?

At our construction sites: Volunteers must be at least 18 years old to work at any of our construction sites, and at least 18 to work on roofs, scaffolding or use power tools.

At our ReStore: Volunteers must be at least 14 years old to work at our ReStore and each minor (under age 18) must arrive onsite with a waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian.