HFHT&DC Informational Brochure!

Click here and here to view the PDF files of our brochure.  If you would like a brochure mailed to you, please call our office at 410-820-6186. 

What is Habitat for Humanity of Talbot & Dorchester Counties?

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 46 homes and currently has 5 homes under construction.  We rely on volunteer labor and financial and material contributions in order to successfully partner with families to build decent and affordable homes in Talbot & Dorchester Counties.  We build our homes under the trained guidance of a volunteer construction supervisor.

Houses are sold at no profit to qualified partner families.  Monthly mortgage payments with no interest including taxes and insurance are repaid by a Habitat homeowner over 25-30 years. These mortgage funds are reinvested into our "Fund for Humanity" which combines with other financial gifts (from our Foundation Fund, Carpenter's Club, special event fundraisers etc.) to support the construction of future homes in our community. 

We strive to build not only homes but also to collaborate with all people interested in the prosperity of Talbot & Dorchester Counties through the creation of affordable housing opportunities. Those we seek to collaborate with include but are not limited to: community leaders, government agencies, other non-profits, community groups, local businesses, interfaith-based organizations, developers, volunteers and other individuals, and realtors to ensure the issues of substandard and affordable housing are addressed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are new to Habitat, here is some information about how our affiliate works and why...

How does it 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 decent and affordable housing.

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

Do you receive funds from Habitat for Humanity International? We are financially independent from International but it shares its brand and affiliate operation materials with us in order for us to function as an affiliate.  Occasionally, we may apply for a special grant from International for a particular project but for the most part we raise all funds to operate through our own channels here in Talbot County. 

How does the partnership with new homeowners work? Habitat does not give away homes.  Rather we partner with volunteers, financial supporters and 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 the development of positive relationships with other people. Habitat is a "hand up, not a hand out".

How are the "partner" families selected? Interested families contact the Habitat office to be added to the “partner family call list”, a phone screening is completed for each applicant.  Those meeting the initial requirements attend an application/information session and may have a home visit by volunteer members of the Family Selection Committee. Families are assessed on the basis of their housing need, their willingness to partner and their ability to repay the no-interest mortgage.

How can I get involved? We have many Volunteer Opportunities for you to choose from. Simply contact us or call 410-820-6186, it's that simple!