Over 150 houses have been built through Flower City Habitat since it started in 1984, adding $4 million to the Rochester tax rolls.

Habitat homeowners are carefully chosen on the basis of need, credit rating, and their potential to be a positive force in their new neighborhood.

The homeowners contribute 500 hours of “sweat equity” (at least half of it into the construction of their own home), and purchase the home through a 20 or 25-year interest-free mortgage ($425/month, including taxes and insurance).

The change to a stable living situation where the family is responsible for their own home has a profound positive impact on not only the parents but also the children.

Flower City Habitat works closely with the City of Rochester to target neighbors that need to be turned around. We will likely build our house in the PAETAC Park area on the west side of Rochester.

Youth 16 and over are now allowed to work on the site as long as they are paired with an adult volunteer.

Volunteers work in groups of six and are trained and supervised by an on-site professional.

The cost of building materials is $65,000, which is paid in three installments during the span the project. The money is raised through offerings and donations, church fundraisers, community-wide fundraisers, and donated building supplies.