Habitat for Humanity surpasses 1 million families served worldwide

Habitat for Humanity has helped more than 1 million families — representing 5 million people in more than 70 countries — improve their living conditions since the organization was founded in 1976, according to its annual report.

Habitat for Humanity West Hawaii contributed to this global effort to offer a hand up to more families in need of adequate shelter. Since 2002, Habitat for Humanity West Hawaii served more than 45 families through housing solutions, including new construction, rehabilitations and repairs.

“Habitat for Humanity West Hawaii is pleased to be part of the effort to eliminate poverty housing,” said Executive Director Patrick Hurney. “We would like to thank our sponsors and volunteers for their support as we continue to improve the West Hawaii community.”

During the 2014 fiscal year, Habitat for Humanity served more than 300,000 families worldwide, including 15 families served in this year throughout West Hawaii through home construction, renovations and critical home repairs or increased access to improved shelter through products and services.

“We are delighted to achieve this incredible milestone and have seen the positive influence a stable home can have on families,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “Because of a house, families have better access to health, financial security, education and employment opportunities. We want to continue building impact so that millions more people can have decent, safe places to live.”

Habitat’s global mission was made possible in fiscal year 2014, thanks to the hands and hearts of more than 2 million volunteers and the financial support of many generous donors. In addition to helping on Habitat build sites, volunteers also served as local board members, in Habitat ReStores and through affordable housing advocacy efforts.