The cost of purchasing a home and paying back a mortgage on Long Island can be a problem for many. It is common for households to spend 50% of their income on housing. This leaves families without the financial resources for other basic needs, such as food, clothing, and health care.
Helping to ease the burden, Habitat for Humanity of Long Island has been helping low- to moderate-income families achieve homeownership since 1987. Their mission is to provide safe, decent, affordable houses and help families build and repair places to call home.
Since its inception, Habitat Long Island has built hundreds of homes. To help the non-profit carry out its mission, State Farm has been supporting Habitat for Humanity Long Island since 2020, providing a total $73,000 in grant funding for their affordable housing efforts.
State Farm has also had a national relationship with Habitat for Humanity since 1994 and became the official corporate sponsor of the Habitat for Humanity Youth Programs in 2007.
“At State Farm, part of our mission is to help people realize their dreams,” says State Farm Corporate Responsibility Analyst Jennifer Young. “In addition to the financial support, our agents and employees volunteer their time for this great cause. We are proud to help neighbors in need on Long Island.”
“Habitat for Humanity of Long Island remains steadfast in our commitment to breaking down barriers to affordable homeownership,” said Jimmy Jack, CEO, and Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Long Island. “In the face of a housing crisis that affects many families on Long Island, our partnership with State Farm stands as a beacon of hope. Together, we build not just houses but futures—where dreams take root, and the warmth of a home extends far beyond its walls. With gratitude to State Farm and the collective spirit of our community, we empower families to thrive, one home at a time."
Future Habitat Long Island homeowners are selected based on the need for affordable housing, willingness to partner with Habitat, and their ability to pay an affordable mortgage. Through the organization’s Homeownership Program, future homeowners will fulfill 300 hours of “sweat equity,” helping to build their future homes and houses for others in the program. This provides an opportunity for homebuyers to work alongside volunteers while bringing their dream of homeownership to life.
Participants also undergo financial preparation classes and volunteer for community service. Each homeowner will sign a 30-year mortgage with a two percent interest rate, with Habitat covering a second mortgage.
The Habitat model ensures that expenses are affordable for their homeowners. Mortgage payments are guaranteed to be no more than 30% of the family’s monthly gross income at the time of closing. Homes are built to be energy-efficient to keep utility payments low. In addition to the benefits for the new homeowners, building safe, affordable homes generates more spending, creates jobs in neighborhoods, and fosters a strong sense of community on Long Island.
For more information, visit the Habitat for Humanity of Long Island website.