Habitat for Tompkins and Cortland Counties is looking for families to become partners with us in building their own homes.

Habitat plans to build three homes in both 2011 and in 2012.  We are eager for families to apply. If you want to be considered for any of these homes, be sure to read on. 

Habitat lends a “hand up” to families who are in need of a simple, decent affordable home.  Habitat helps families fund and build their own homes.

Families must have lived in either Tompkins or Cortland County for at least one year.  In addition, an applicant family’s income must fall within 30-60 percent of the county median.

The county median income is indicated on the application form.

To qualify as a partner family, you must be living in inadequate shelter.  You must have the ability to pay a low-interest mortgage.

You also must be willing to contribute 500 hours of sweat equity toward the construction of your home.

Habitat always wants families to be successful homeowners, so financial and home maintenance classes are required.

Becoming a Habitat partner is an exciting time for each of the families.  They are sharing the experience of building their own home.  This experience leads to a strong feeling of pride when they move into their home.

This feeling of pride helps promote strong neighborhood attachment, a goal shared between Habitat for Humanity and Cortland Area Communities That Care Coalition.

 Applications to become a Habitat family partner can be picked up at CAPCO from the receptionist at 32 North Main Street, Cortland.  They are also available from the YWCA receptionist at 14 Clayton Avenue, Cortland.

An application can be obtained by going to www.tchabitat.com 

If you would like to talk with someone regarding home ownership and the application process feel free to call Shannon at 607-898-4148 or email her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . 

Those interested in volunteering to work on these builds, joining a Habitat committee or helping with fundraising may also seek information through these contacts.

Kathleen Tavarone is the Chair of the Family Selection Committee of the Tompkins Cortland Habitat for Humanity.  She is also a CACTC Board member