What is Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity
During the past 19 years, the Maumee Valley affiliate has built, rebuilt and dedicated more than 120 homes with the help of more than 7,000 volunteers and support from over 608 corporations, churches, and businesses.

How does it work?
Through volunteer labor, management expertise, and tax-deductible donations of money and materials, MVHFH is able to provide decent housing to those who otherwise could not afford to build a new home. Houses are sold at no profit and no interest to partner families. In 2004, a MVHFH house cost homeowners just over $60,250 for a 3 bedroom 1 bath ranch, $64,750 for a 4 bedroom 2 bath ranch, and $66,000 for a 3 bedroom 1.5 bath 2 story. Small monthly mortgage payments, including taxes and insurance, are repaid over 25 years and deposited in a revolving fund which supports the construction of more homes.

Who controls and manages MVHFH?
A board of 18 trustees, four officers, and six committee chairs control and manage MVHFH. The board meetings are open to the public and are held on the third Monday every other month at 6:00 PM at our offices located at 223 S Fearing Blvd in Toledo. You are welcome to attend anytime.

How does partnership with homeowners work?
MVHFH is not a giveaway program, but a joint-venture in which those who benefit are involved in the work at various levels. Each homeowner family is required to invest "sweat equity" hours into the construction of their home. This reduces the cost of the house, increases the pride of ownership among family members, and fosters the development of positive relationships with other persons.

How are partner families selected?
Families apply to local MVHFH projects. A Family Selection Committee chooses homeowners based on their level of need, their willingness to become partners in the program, and their ability to repay the loan. Every project follows a nondiscriminatory policy of family selection. Neither race nor religion is a factor in choosing the families that receive MVHFH houses.

How does Habitat work with the government?
MVHFH does not accept government money for construction of new houses, renovation or repair of existing houses, or general operating expenses of projects. MVHFH does, however, accept funds for the acquisition of streets, utilities, land, or old houses needing rehabilitation, provided those funds have no provisions attached which would violate MVHFH principles.

How are donations distributed and used?
Donations are distributed as designated by the donor. All undesignated donations are used where needed.