Habitat for Humanity Choptank...

Our affiliate functions under the auspices of the Affiliate Covenant set forth by Habitat for Humanity International.  HFH International, an inter-faith housing ministry, positively impacts the lives of God's people in need here in the United States as well as in over 30 countries on 6 continents and has overseen construction or renovation of over 200,000 homes since its founding in 1976.

Since 1992 our affiliate has completed 49 homes and currently has 5 homes under construction.  We rely on volunteer labor and financial and material contributions in order to successfully partner with qualifying families in building decent and affordable homes in Dorchester and Talbot Counties.

Houses are sold at no profit to partner families with interest free Habitat mortgages.  Monthly mortgage payments including taxes and insurance are repaid by the Habitat homeowner over 25-30 years and are often less than what that home owner once paid in rent. These mortgage funds are reinvested into our "Fund for Humanity" which combines with other financial gifts to support the construction of future homes in our two-county region. 

We strive to build not only homes but also to collaborate with all people interested in the quality of life in our community through the creation of affordable housing opportunities. Our partnes include: community leaders, government agencies, other non-profits, community groups, local businesses and realtors, interfaith organizations, developers, and volunteers and other individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Habitat mission work? With volunteer labor, tax-deductible donations of money and materials, Habitat volunteers partner with families in need to improve our community through the construction of simple, decent, and affordable housing.

Why homeownership? Many people who have small but steady incomes are unable to purchase a home through a conventional mortgage.   Every family's physical and spiritual well being, as well as their sense of dignity and self worth, is tied to having a decent place to live.  Homeownership empowers working families to become community investors.

Do you receive funds from Habitat for Humanity International? We are financially independent from International.  The national organization shares its brand and operations materials with us in order for us to function as an affiliate.  While occassionally HFHI provides affiliates with opportunities to apply for grant funding for designated projects, we are responsible for raising funds for our operations. 

How does the partnership with new homeowners work? Habitat does not give away homes.  Rather we partner with volunteers, donors and funders, and qualifying families in need to build decent and affordable homes.  Each Partner Family is required to earn Sweat Equity hours. This reduces the cost of the home, increases the pride of homeownership among family members, and fosters positive relationships with other people. Habitat is a "hand up, not a hand out".

How are the "partner" families selected? Carefully and thoughtfully. Interested families complete an application, have an office interview and home visit by volunteers from the Family Selection Committee. Families are assessed on the basis of their housing need, their willingness to partner with Habitat, and their ability to repay the interest free mortgage.

How can I get involved? We have many volunteer opportunities for you to choose from. Simply email us or call 410-476-3204, it's that simple!