Corinne O’Connell, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia discussed their work in providing homeownership to families who otherwise could not afford or qualify for a mortgage.  We discussed the housing crisis in Philadelphia, a city with a large stock of aging and vacant homes, many without a clear title to allow for repair loans or transfer. Habitat looks for properties it can purchase, rehab and sell to program participants at a cost-per-month that doesn’t exceed 30% of their monthly income.  The new homeowners are screened and go through a vigorous program of budgeting, community leadership and home maintenance classes before receiving the keys.  Ms O’Connell also spoke of their other mission, building stronger communities.  Habitat looks for neighborhoods where the community is already invested, strong neighborhood or community planning associations and economic buy-in.  In addition to the homes built or rehabbed and sold, Habitat works with local residents to repair existing homes, roofing and exterior work, plumbing, electrical and other interior jobs, to help that family retain their home and its equity.   

Habitat runs on donations and volunteers! Whether it’s helping on a construction or repair site as an individual or business, donating building materials and household goods –
or buying them at a deep discount – at the ReStore, there is a way to support Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia. 

To learn more or the begin the application to receive repairs or purchase a home yourself, go to HabitatPhiladelphia.org