Since 1994, Habitat for Humanity North Louisiana has been on a mission to put faith into action by building safe, affordable homes for families in need. Rooted in the belief that “God’s love is shared through building homes,” the Christian nonprofit has constructed 63 homes across Lincoln, Jackson, and Ouachita parishes—changing lives one house at a time.
Habitat for Humanity North Louisiana’s mission statement reflects both compassion and action: “We are a Christian organization that truly loves our people, sharing God’s love by building homes for individuals in great need.” The organization relies on volunteers, donors, and community partners to make the dream of homeownership a reality for families who otherwise could not afford it.
Applicants for Habitat homes must demonstrate both financial and personal commitment. Families are selected based on three core criteria:
- Living conditions: Families may currently reside in unsafe neighborhoods plagued by crime or in severely deteriorated housing.
- Financial eligibility: Applicants’ incomes must fall within established thresholds relative to family size. Credit history and bill-paying habits are also reviewed.
- Sweat equity: Each homeowner is required to invest 250 hours of labor, working alongside volunteers to help build their own home.
When several eligible families apply, priority is given to those with the greatest need—often determined by the number of children in the household or the severity of their current living conditions.
Families begin the process by completing a mortgage-style application, including a credit check and income verification. The Homeowner Selection Committee, made up of 21 board members, then reviews each case. Successful applicants not only commit to sweat equity but also enroll in a 12-week financial training program to prepare for responsible homeownership.
One of the hallmarks of Habitat for Humanity is its financial structure, which eliminates burdensome costs for homeowners. On average, homes cost about $110,000 to build, and new homeowners typically receive an interest-free loan of around $115,000. With volunteer labor offsetting contractor expenses, families’ monthly mortgage payments range from just $470 to $480.
Since its founding, Habitat for Humanity North Louisiana has grown into a regional force for good. With 63 homes built so far, the organization continues to expand its outreach across Lincoln, Jackson, and Ouachita parishes.
Community involvement is the cornerstone of Habitat’s success. Volunteers can sign up at hfhnl.org to take part in upcoming builds. Current needs include a building supervisor in Ouachita Parish and additional skilled tradespeople to support construction projects.
The next major fundraiser, Home for the Holidays in Ruston, will take place on November 20. More details will be available soon on the organization’s website.
For more information, to apply for a home, or to volunteer, visit hfhnl.org or call the Habitat for Humanity North Louisiana office. Videos of recent homeowners and project updates are also available online.
