U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grant one of only three nationwide

WASHINGTON (Sept. 23, 2011)—Habitat for Humanity International announced today that it will receive a 7,499,822 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Habitat is one of three national organizations to receive a grant through the Section 4 Capacity Building for Community Development and Affordable Housing Program intended to enhance the technical and administrative capacity of community-based and housing nonprofits.

“Habitat for Humanity greatly appreciates HUD providing these critical funds that enable our affiliates across the country to serve more families,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “With federal funding for community development extremely scarce it is more important than ever to focus limited resources on effective and efficient programs like the Section 4 program.”

Since 1997, Habitat affiliates have participated in the Section 4 program, which requires recipients to match every 1 of HUD funds with at least 3 in private investment. Habitat affiliates leverage, on average, 10 of private funds for every 1 of Section 4 investment and increase production by 40 percent through the use of these funds.

More than 2,000 communities in all 50 states and the District of Columbia have benefitted from investments in affordable housing and community and economic development since the Section 4 program was authorized in 1993.

About Habitat for Humanity International
Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built, rehabilitated, repaired or improved more than 400,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 2 million people. For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit Habitat.org.