Frequently Asked Questions – Habitat for Humanity of Bedford County

Who Are We? What Does Habitat for Humanity Do?

Habitat for Humanity of Bedford County is a Christian-based, non-profit organization that fights to end substandard housing in Bedford County by building affordable homes for ownership by deserving, low-income families. We offer a “hand-up not a hand-out” to families that are able to afford a low-interest mortgage. The costs of the homes are kept low by reducing costs as much as possible with the use of volunteer labor, donations and discounted building materials, as well as monetary donations.

What is our connection to Habitat for Humanity International?

Habitat for Humanity of Bedford County is an independently-funded affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, founded in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller. Donations to Habitat International fund housing programs overseas, while donations to Habitat for Humanity of Bedford County fund housing programs in Bedford County, Pennsylvania.

Who can volunteer for Habitat for Humanity of Bedford County?

People across all races, nationalities, ethnic and religious backgrounds are invited to participate and rally around the cause of safe, decent, and affordable housing for everyone. At the build site, volunteers must be at least 16 years old, and at least 18 years old to operate power tools and heavy machinery.

Who can apply to own a Habitat for Humanity of Bedford County home?

Families living in either substandard or overcrowded housing conditions, or those with a severe rent burden
Families with incomes between 30% and 60% of Bedford County’s median income
Families able to repay a low-interest mortgage
Families willing to invest 500 “sweat equity” hours per adult

What makes HFHBC homes affordable for low-income families?

Volunteer labor
Locally supplied materials
Community, faith, and corporate sponsorships
Individual donations
“Sweat equity” hours
An affordable, no-profit, low-interest mortgage

What kind of homes do we build?

Habitat for Humanity of Bedford County builds or renovates safe, simple, and decent single-family homes.

How can I obtain a homeownership application?

If you are interested in becoming a Partner Family, please call Habitat for Humanity of Bedford County at: (814) 624-3443 or Click Here to Apply Online.

Who can volunteer?

Individuals, both inexperienced or skilled, groups from companies, congregations, local organizations and service volunteers can all lend a hand.

How can I donate?

Individuals can send donations, including pledges or one-time gifts. Corporations can sponsor events held throughout the year, while faith groups and local organizations can sponsor team builds or fundraisers. You can also make your tax-deductible donation online via PayPal.

If you prefer to mail your donation, you may send it in to:

Habitat for Humanity of Bedford County
203 South Juliana Street
Bedford, PA 15522

Non-proselytizing Policy

Habitat for Humanity International and its affiliated organizations (HFH) will not proselytize. Nor will HFH work with entities or individuals who insist on proselytizing as part of their work with HFH. This means that HFH will not offer assistance on the expressed or implied condition that people must (i) adhere to or convert to a particular faith or (ii) listen and respond to messaging designed to induce conversion to a particular faith.