Monthly Mission Focus – Habitat for Humanity

Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity offers homeownership opportunities to low-income individuals and families who are unable to obtain conventional home financing.

• In Indiana, 1 in 9 households spend half or more of their income on housing
• In Indiana, the average hourly wage necessary to afford a two‐bedroom unit is $19.00; more than half of Hoosier renters cannot afford the fair market rate.
• Greater Indy Habitat’s home construction costs have more than doubled in the past 5 years

Research shows that Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program leads to benefits beyond housing:

• improved quality of life and mental health
• a decreased reliance on social services
• improved academic achievement of children
• increased prosperity of families as well as the entire community

In 2022, Greater Indy Habitat launched a strategic plan for growth, setting a historic goal to provide 300 housing solutions to people in the Indianapolis region by the end of 2024. This plan was launched to address the expanding gap in racial inequalities and increasing construction and land costs, among other issues.

How can you help?

• Financial donations to Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity can be made online at stmarkscarmel.org/give or by using the offering envelope in the blue attendance pads.
• Honor someone special with a mission offering gift in St. Mark’s annual Tree of Lights campaign. 100% of donations go directly to Greater Indy Habitat.
• Sign up to help on the next “build” (details coming soon).
• Pray for the Habitat mentors, build volunteers, organizers, and families who are in need of affordable housing.
• Donate new and used items in working condition to the Habitat ReStore. Visit indyrestore.com/checklist for a complete list of acceptable donations and to find a store nearest to you.

Volunteer Opportunities

ReStore

Please contact Stephanie Cohen if you would like to know more.