FAQ

3

FAQ’s

What do I wear?

Boots or Tennis shoes and comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty.

Do I have to have construction experience to participate?

No, no construction experience is required. We need volunteers committed to working with a willingness to learn. But skilled volunteers are also welcome on the site.

Will someone be available to show me what to do?

Yes. HFHMCA construction staff will be on site to show you what to do. Future homeowners work side by side with volunteers building their homes.

Can I complete community service hours by volunteering for Habitat?

Yes. Becoming a regular volunteer is a great way to fulfill any community service hour requirements you have. Construction volunteers work 4 or 8 hour shifts, and there occasionally are opportunities in our office.

How old do volunteers need to be to work on the construction site?
16. Volunteers ages 16-17 will need a waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian. All other volunteers will sign a volunteer waiver on site.
Can I volunteer if I’m under the age of 16?
You cannot participate in construction projects if you are under the age of 16.
When can I volunteer?
Regular construction volunteers work on Saturdays from 8:00am to 4:00pm. Occasionally there may be weekday opportunities for groups of 10 or more. Please call the office for more information: 601-353-6060.
Where are Habitat houses built?
Habitat houses are built in the Hinds, Rankin and Madison Counties.
Can I only volunteer for house construction?
HFHMCA has many volunteer opportunities other than house construction. We frequently have events that need organizing and staffing. Landscaping is the last thing to do before a house is completed. Occasionally we may need volunteers for that day.
What time do I need to be there?
7:45 a.m. The workday begins promptly at 8:00 and ends around 4:00. We break for lunch from 12-1. Lunch will not be provided unless otherwise noted. You or someone from your group will need to bring water and/or any beverages for the day.
What if it rains?
We’ll all be in it together. Our construction supervisors will make the call on site.
Do I need to bring anything?
No. If you would like, you can bring a hammer, nail apron, and work gloves.

HOME OWNERSHIP FAQ’s

Will my house be a resale, rehab or new construction?

Once you are selected as a Habitat Homeowner, our Family Services staff will work with you to determine whether you will build a new home, or purchase a resale or rehab based on your preferences and the needs of your family.

How long does it take to get into a Habitat house?

Every homeowner experience is different, and this will depend on how quickly you are able to complete the partnership requirements, as well as available funding and properties.

What are the sizes of the homes?

Homes typically range from 1,000 square feet to 1,400 square feet. The number of bedrooms and bathrooms will depend on the size of your family.

Where will my home be located?

Homeowners work with our Family Services staff to choose a lot or resale/rehab home from what is available when they complete 50% of their sweat equity hours.