More Than Houses Campaign

More Than Houses Campaign Numbers as of Dec. 31, 2005

More Than Houses, Habitat for Humanity International’s five-year campaign to strengthen the depth and breadth of Habitat’s impact on the problem of substandard housing ended December 31, 2005. The ambitious goals of this campaign were:

1. Establish Habitat in 100 countries

2. Build 100,000 homes

3. Raise $500 million.

Habitat for Humanity International is pleased to announce that these goals have been met—and surpassed. In June 2004, Habitat achieved its goal of having a partnership program in place in 100 countries, a milestone in its work to eradicate poverty and substandard housing from the planet. August 14, 2005, in Knoxville, Tenn., Habitat dedicated its 200,000^th house. Since its launch in 2000, the More Than Houses campaign has raised $593 million—119 percent of its original goal.

The success of the More Than Houses campaign has amplified Habitat’s ability to address the problem of substandard housing worldwide. In the 2004 issue of “Building Magazine,” Habitat was ranked the 17^th largest homebuilder in the United States. The Oct. 28, 2004, “Chronicle of Philanthropy” ranked Habitat the 18^th largest non-profit organization in the country.

”We have exceeded our goals, acquired new friends and donors and accelerated the whole mission,” said Jack Kemp, former secretary for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and chair of the More Than Houses campaign. “A laser-like campaign focus has proven to work. We know that setting goals is important and adds to our integrity and the mission.”

History of the More Than Houses Campaign
Since 1976, Habitat for Humanity has worked in partnership with low-income families around the world to help make the dream of decent, affordable housing come true. By 2000, Habitat had helped make this dream a reality for 100,000 families worldwide.

Yet, the 1.5 billion people living in substandard housing or lack housing altogether demanded that Habitat intensify its efforts. In 2000, Habitat for Humanity International’s board of directors initiated More Than Houses, a five-year campaign to establish Habitat in 100 countries, raise $500 million and build an additional 100,000 homes.

The campaign, based at Habitat for Humanity International headquarters in Americus, Ga., also promoted field presence at various affiliates throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, Africa, Latin America and Asia. Jack Kemp, HFHI board member, volunteer and former secretary for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, served as campaign chair.