Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian organization dedicated to eliminating substandard housing and homelessness worldwide and to making adequate, affordable shelter a matter of conscience and action. Habitat is founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, decent, affordable place to live in dignity and safety. 
St. Alban's has participated in hands-on volunteering with the local affiliate, Central South Carolina (CSC) Habitat for Humanity, based in Columbia, since at least 1998. St. Alban's joined a coalition of Lexington area churches to sponsor and build Habitat homes in 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006 and 2008. In odd-numbered years we raise funds for the sponsorships, which require on the order of $50,000 to build a house.
 
CSC Habitat for Humanity also sells used building material in their Restore. Visit the website and click Shop Habitat for more info.
 
Habitat is not a giveaway program. The family must contribute a down payment and a minimum of about 400 hours of sweat equity to help build their home and homes of other future habitat homeowners. The family must also participate in weekly educational classes related to home management and life skills. They also must pay back a 25 year, no interest mortgage.
 
Habitat's ministry is based on the conviction that to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ we must reflect Christ's love in our own lives by loving and caring for one another. Our love must not be words only -- it must be true love, which shows itself in action. Habitat provides an opportunity for people to put their faith and love into action, bringing diverse groups of people together to make affordable housing and better communities a reality for everyone.