Local History:

Troy – New page devoted to the history of Rensselaer’s affiliate!

Albany – Our History of Building in Albany County

Ministry:

As a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian organization, CDHFH is dedicated to elimating substandard housing – making adequate, affordable shelter a matter of conscience and action. Our ministry was founded on the deep conviction that everyman, woman and child should have a simple, decent place to live in dignity and safety.

CDHFH has an open-door policy. We welcome everyone who desires to be a part of our work. We build with people in need regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity and we welcome volunteers and supporters of all backgrounds.

Habitat is driven by the desire to give tangible expression to the love of God through the work of eliminating poverty housing. Our mission and methods are predominately derived from a few key theological concepts.

• Putting faith into action

Habitat’s ministry is based on the conviction that to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, we must love and care for one another. Our love must not be words only- it must be true love, which shows itself in action.

• The economics of Jesus

When we act in response to human need, giving what we have without seeking profit, we believe God magnifies the effects of our efforts. We refer to this perspective as “the economics of Jesus.” Together, the donated labor of construction volunteers, the support of partner organizations and the homeowners’ “sweat equity” make Habitat’s mission possible.

• The theology of the hammer

Everyone can use the hammer as an instrument to manifest God’s love. Habitat’s late founder Millard Fuller, called this concept “the theology of the hammer.” We may disagree on all sorts of other things,” said Fuller, “but we can agree on the idea of building homes with God’s people in need, and in doing so using biblical economics: no profit and no interest.”