The Need | Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas County

The Need

Decent, Affordable Housing is a Matter of Conscience and Action

Overcrowded. Substandard. Financially burdened ... These problems create instability in our community, weaken our economy, and even impact health and educational success. These problems are an everyday reality for many Pinellas County children and families. For instance, more than 38 percent of our population spend too much of their income on housing.

Supporters, like you, join Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas County to improve the housing issues in our community by donating time or money. Affordable housing is a complex issue, but Habitat Pinellas has solutions that help parents provide affordable housing for their families.

With your help, we are increasing our capacity to build and address these concerns. For families who are stuck in the downward spiral of poverty housing, Habitat’s homeownership program provides a solution for brighter futures.

A Stable, Affordable Home Provides

Stability for children and families.
Dignity for parents.
Improved health, physical safety, and security.
Increased educational and job prospects.
Engaged homeowners, invested in their communities.

Pinellas County Housing Statistics*

115,874 Pinellas County households pay more than 30% of their income for housing.
47,360 households in Pinellas County pay more than 50% of their income for housing.
17,615 housing units are substandard. (Technically speaking, housing is “substandard” if it is overcrowded, lacks heat or lacks complete kitchen or plumbing facilities.)
*Source: Shimberg Center for Housing Studies

National Housing Statistics**

There is not a single county in the country where a full-time minimum wage worker can afford even a one-bedroom apartment at what HUD determines to be the Fair Market Rent. (NLIHC: 2006)
Almost 16 million Americans pay 50 percent or more of their income for housing.
One in three American households spend more than 30 percent of income on housing, and one in seven spends more than 50 percent. (JCHS: 2006)
About 95 million people, one third of the nation, have housing problems including a high-cost burden, overcrowding, poor quality shelter and homelessness. (NLIHC: 2004)
**Source: Habitat for Humanity, International


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Our Mission: Putting faith into action, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas County promotes family stability by providing innovative and affordable housing solutions to qualified individuals and families. In partnership with our community, we work toward our ultimate goal of eliminating substandard housing throughout the county.