Habitat for Humanity of Spartanburg is an ecumenical, Christian ministry that changes lives by building decent, affordable homes in partnership with Spartanburg County families in need. Habitat Spartanburg began in 1987 when five churches in our community recognized the need for low-income families in Spartanburg County to obtain adequate housing by becoming the owners of their own homes. In 33 years, Habitat Spartanburg has utilized volunteers to build 147 homes, providing families with the opportunity to fulfill a lifetime dream of owning a home. Habitat Spartanburg seeks willing financial sponsors including corporations, foundations and individuals to fund Habitat homes. The financial support of companies like Milliken, Denny’s, JM Smith Foundation and others make it possible for Habitat Spartanburg to pay for construction materials. After the homes are sold to our partner families, they pay an affordable, zero-interest mortgage. In the pay-it-forward model, those funds are then used to support other new home construction. In 2019, Habitat Spartanburg started a Critical Home Repair Program for homeowners who need emergency exterior home repairs. Since its inception, Habitat Spartanburg has made repairs to 22 homes in Spartanburg County. Those repairs include wheelchair ramps, roof projects, chimney stabilization, water diversion and other repairs so homeowners can remain insurable and in their homes for an extended period. Habitat Spartanburg also requires volunteers to help build homes under the supervision of trained construction supervisors. In 2020, Habitat Spartanburg had 2,659 volunteers assist us in missional work.