About : The Need is Great

We are fortunate to live in one of our country's most affordable communities, but the need for affordable housing continues to grow. In Putnamn County, 11,975 (45%) of households are considered low-income. Over 34% of those low-income households have severe housing problems as well.

Ideally the cost of housing is 25% of the household income. However, almost 50% of renters are spending 35% or more of their household income for rent. With median rent in Putnam County closing in on $600, it takes a household income of $28,000 to comfortably afford that amount by maintaining that ideal 25% ratio. Add to that a median house price of $124,000, an income of more than $40,000 would be necessary to purchase that home, in addition to a very good credit standing.

Our community has come together to provide over 60 families the opportunity to own the American Dream. Those families represent 71 adults and more than 130 children whose lives have been impacted

*Half of our partner families were able to move out of very poor housing conditions - electrical hazards, no running water, severe mold issues, improper heating,etc.
*50% were living in overcrowded conditions
*A third of our households have a special needs family member
*80% were living under severe cost-burdened situations

Why Homeownership Matters
Becoming a homeowner starts a path to a new destiny. Homeownership helps one realize the life-changing effects - they see financial independence, security and stability, possibilities for advancement through education, and more. As a Habitat homeowner who has actually helped build their home, they have the pride of knowing their hard work has allowed them to become an active member of their new community.

Children - Our Future
Studies have shown that a safe, healthy, and stable home environment is critical to the physical, social, and educational development and welfare of children. A University of Tennessee study found that children living in homes as opposed to those living in rental units:

*Are 25% more likely to graduate from high school
*Are 116% more likely to graduate from college
*Are 20% less likely to become teenaged mothers
*Are 59% more likely to own a home within 10 years of moving from their parents household
*Save taxpayers an estimated $34,000 in public expenditures
*Are more likely to vote
*Are more likely to become involved in their communities

When neighborhoods see an increase in homeownership, the schools will see an impact. As the children thrive in a stable home environment and more parents find additional time with less stresses - the schools can see positive effects.