Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI), located in Americus, Georgia, is an organization dedicated to building simple, decent, affordable shelter around the world.

In order to accomplish this mission, local affiliates such as Habitat for Humanity Portland/Metro East were formed.  Affiliates are all independent, locally run, nonprofit organizations. Each affiliate is responsible for coordinating all aspects of Habitat home building in its local area, including fund raising, building site selection, partner family selection and support, house construction and mortgage servicing.

HFHI assists these affiliates through providing information, training and a variety of other support services.  To help support HFHI's work, all Habitat affiliates are asked to "tithe" 10 percent of their undesignated contributions to Habitat for Humanity International, to fund house-building work in other nations.

Tithing provides much-needed funds for international building, and it also gives affiliates the opportunity to demonstrate the spirit of Christian partnership. In 2001, U.S. affiliates tithed $9.04 million to support Habitat's work overseas. Some affiliates in developing countries also receive funding grants from Habitat for Humanity International.  Per our request, Habitat for Humanity Portland/Metro East's tithe dollars support Habitat for Humanity affiliates in the countries of El Salvador and Thailand.

To find out more about the work of Habitat for Humanity worldwide, please visit the Habitat for Humanity International website.