An important part of Rochester Area Habitat for Humanity (RAHH) is the Ministry of Repair.  It aims to improve our community through improvement in living conditions.  The ministry achieves this by making repairs that improve health and safety, handicapped accessibility, increase the longevity of the house, or that help conserve resources.

The homeowner repays project costs to Habitat for Humanity with no interest and no profit, through a standard "Home Equity Loan" type program.  Because Habitat for Humanity uses volunteer labor, the amount of the loan is usually just the cost of materials.

To be eligible for consideration, family income should be below the maximum allowed.  This maximum depends on the number of family members.

The selection process does not discriminate against anyone on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religious affiliation, marital status, national origin, physical disability, sexual orientation, or because all or part of the applicant's income is derived from public assistance.
 

There are 3 primary criteria used in selecting families:

1. Need for Home Repairs:  Eligible repairs are those which will improve health and safety, handicapped accessibility, increase the longevity of the house, or help conserve resources.  Repairs which are purely cosmetic in nature or new additions are not eligible.
2. Ability to Pay:  Applicants must have a reliable source of income which is sufficient to cover the loan payment.  In addition, applicants should have a history of financial responsibility.  However families must also have a real need for the Ministry of Repair services.
3. Participation in Habitat:  Each family is expected to contribute  "sweat equity" according to the repairs.  This can be, but does not necessarily have to be, construction work.