Through volunteerism and community donations, the mission of the Mt Washington Valley affiliate of Habitat for Humanity is to build simple, decent, and affordable homes with and for our neighbors in need.

Based on U.S. Census data for the MWV area, 53% of renters and 35% of homeowners exceed the generally accepted standard that no more than 30% of the household income should go to housing costs. Further, in 2010, the median selling price of a home in the Mt. Washington Valley was $190,000, but 56% of households in our area earn less than $50,000/year and 37% earn less than $35,000/year. This is largely due to the significant number of workers who support the tourist and retail industry, but only earn a median hourly income of $10.86. Service workers earn a median hourly wage of $9.73!

The 2012 report by the MWV Housing Coalition concludes, ”There is a substantial failure in the MWV housing market with respect to the needs of the low and moderate income wage earners.”

Since 1994, the MWV Habitat affiliate has refurbished four houses, constructed 11 homes in Robert Morrell Drive, one in Fryeburg, four homes in a four unit complex on North Rd in Conway, a home on Grison Rd. in Madison and is currently building a house in the Sokokis Pines area of Tamworth. That only scratches the surface. We need your support to continue and expand our mission.

We believe in the transformational ability of good housing for our community. Affordable home ownership provides more than just a roof. It creates:

• Stability for families and children.
• Sense of dignity and pride.
• Health, physical safety, and security.
• Increases educational and job prospects.
• Improves the local economy

Home ownership is only part of the success that we achieve.  Habitat homeowners gain a sense of community and volunteerism in addition to a basic understanding of construction.  Home ownership roots families in the community and creates stability in many other ways.  Families are not concerned about moving yearly. They know where their children will be going to school, and their monthly payments for housing are constant in the future.  The cost of house maintenance and heating are controlled because the homes are well insulated.

Why rent when you can own? Check out the section APPLY FOR A HOME for more information.  If your dream is to build a better life for your family and yourself, review the requirements and fill out the initial paperwork. 

Our latest Newsletter is available by clicking here.