The Habitat Tucson Blog

“I want children to have stability. I want children to have a stable place where they don’t have to go from apartment to apartment–I just don’t think it’s good for them. I want them to have a place that they can call home.”

A safe yard where they can play. A strong roof that never leaks. Enough room inside to eat, and play, and learn without crashing into one another. All that is possible with an affordable Habitat home.

Because of her own hard work and your partnership, Helen and her granddaughter can now enjoy their safe, repaired, and repainted home for years to come!

Everything will be different once Denim and her boys move into a safe, stable home.

“My first question when they did a home visit was: if something were to happen to me, will it be able to go to my children?” says Monica. “They told me, ‘Yes.’”

“My favorite experience has been getting to know all the volunteers and hearing their stories, how they started to get involved with Habitat. Every day I wake up motivated and excited to go work with amazing people.”

Since 2001, John and Kathy Kitagawa have been regular fixtures at the Habitat Tucson build site.

For many people the new year provides a new beginning and an opportunity for self-improvement. Setting and keeping goals can be tricky, but we want to help you stick to them this year!

Are you into upcycling and making cool projects? Me too! I found this sad little shovel at our local HabiStore and knew right away that I could give it a new life.

Habitat for Humanity’s HabiStore acts as a hub for recycling in the greater Tucson area.

For Nick and Leann, a stable place to call home allows them to focus on their faith and family. After partnering with Habitat Tucson, the two look forward to having a quiet place to study and pursue their dreams. One day, Nick hopes to become a deacon.

Back in 2007, two Habitat homebuyers said, “We want to save money to raise our child, so she can go to college in the future.” Then it happened!

“Housing is such an important part of stability,” John says. “And here you can see where the money is going at Habitat Tucson and you know that it’s being put to good use.”

“There is nothing more satisfying than seeing someone get their first home when they have been struggling just to survive,” Scott says. “After I retired, I wanted to continue helping others.”

The skyrocketing costs of lumber and building materials is having a serious effect on affordable housing in our community and around the country.

“We built this family, me and my wife,” Jacques says. “Anything I do, all my plans, are based on their lives and their futures.”

“That’s why we came here to the United States,” Jesus says. “To fight for a better life. Something that we deserve to have for our family—where we can be happy and together in the same place.”

Having a home for Jesse gives him a sense of self-sufficiency—investing in himself and his future.

William wants to give his daughter the best life he can. “I can’t wait to get the house to spend more time with her.”

Let’s celebrate Earth Day 2021 with some great tips and tricks for keeping it fresh while keeping it out of the landfill!

Since she joined the program, Felicia immediately felt part of a bigger community.

Andy Rubio stumbled upon the Americorps internship program in search of employment after moving to Tucson, Arizona from Texas. He is a soon to be architect who aspires to surpass the standards set by Frank Lloyd Wright. He hopes to one day start his own architectural firm that centers around the preservation and incorporation of nature in the common home.

This past year, more than 155 individuals in Tucson benefited from the kindness of Habitat Tucson supporters, volunteers — and you.

Madison Owen partnered with Habitat through Beloved in the Desert, Episcopal Service Corps. The Episcopal Service Corps is a network of young adults passionate about serving others, promoting social justice, deepening spiritual awareness, discerning vocation, and living in community.

“We will be the OWNERS of the house. It is more comfortable, more safe, more stable. It will be so good for us,” says homebuyer Marie.

Family partners mentor Habitat families on their journey towards homeownership. They provide consistent, frequent contact with the home buyer family to prepare families to become strong, stable, and self-reliant homeowners.

They guide families in maintaining current and future financial obligations, support them in achieving sweat equity hours, provide their family with other community resources as needed, and present the keys to the partner family during their home dedication.

“These families have had struggles, but they are able to get themselves back on their feet and move forward. That is truly motivational.”

Mariah is a third-grade teacher in Tucson. After completing sweat equity and taking financial classes she purchased her home with Habitat Tucson this year.

Every dollar you spend at the store helps Habitat Tucson build affordable homes in Southern Arizona.

When I began my internship search this previous summer, the only thing I knew about Habitat for Humanity was that they build houses. While doing further research through the University […]

Along with the technical skills I gained, I had the wonderful opportunity of seeing more of what Habitat Tucson does for the community. I was aware that this organization helps make affordable housing possible, but I was moved by how much they do to help better people’s lives.

Sheltering in place means the front line of the COVID-19 crisis is at our own front doors, those very walls we shelter within.

“Home is more than just a place to put up pictures or rest your head at night,” says Rhyana. “For my daughters, it will always be the place mom is at.

Gerry and Carolyn have been volunteering at Habitat Tucson for the past 23 years and have no plans of leaving anytime soon.

Brian McKnight volunteered more than 11 years for Habitat Tucson. Brian died peacefully August 19, 2020.

Veteran Engel joined the Habitat program to provide a forever home to his large, intergenerational family.

Buying decor for a house or even just a room can easily become an expensive endeavor. However, we’re here to tell you that decorating on a budget is totally possible.

25% off all mattresses at the HabiStore! Sale going on NOW through July 31st.

Habitat for Humanity is approaching the problem by introducing Habitat Tucson’s very first small home.

At just 900 sq. feet, this 2-bedroom 1-bathroom home is the perfect fit for smaller families.

Our stores might be closed to the public, but you can now shop our HabiStore online!

When asked what home means to him, Jean wrote it down in his first language, Kinyarwanda: “Ahantuzaba igihecyose hitwiwawe.” Translated, it means, “It will always be with you.”

“While it may feel like one person alone can’t make a difference, you become part of a team that together can make a huge impact on somebody’s life.”

Alice is living with Parkinson Disease and has developed issues with her balance. With a fear of falling, the replacement of their old deteriorating ramp was urgent. That’s where A Brush With Kindness comes in!

Since 2011, The Home Depot Foundation has invested more than $160 million to provide safe housing to veterans, and along with the help of Team Depot volunteers, has transformed more than 26,700 homes for veterans.

As a 7th grade teacher at Mansfield Middle School for the past thirteen years, Elizabeth is no stranger to hard work, patience, and resilience. But Elizabeth, Cesar, and their four teenaged children Jailene, Jazelle, Gizelle, and Cesar Jr. have been renting a cramped house for the past six years. Everyone’s squeezed in tight. Privacy? Forget it! Not only is the house filled well beyond capacity, but also has flooring issues and a leak in the roof causing summertime mold. And in the winter, poor insulation led to huge heating bills.

Being accepted into the Habitat homeownership program this year has been life-changing.

the HabiStore was able to divert 1,040 tons of building materials, appliances, new and gently used furniture, and home accessories from the local landfill. That’s more than double the tonnage the HabiStore saved from the landfill in previous years!

The HabiStore serves as a recycling hub that helps keep usable household items out of landfills. All sales generated by the HabiStore directly support the building of additional energy-efficient, affordable homes in the Tucson community.

This past year, more than 253 individuals in Tucson benefited from the kindness of Habitat Tucson supporters, volunteers — and you.

During this coronavirus outbreak, Meghan represents so many in our community–a hardworking parent who just wants a safe, healthy future for her family.

Habitat for Humanity Tucson has donated our supply of respirator masks to Tucson area hospitals as medical personnel battle the Coronavirus in Arizona and around the country.

“Habitat gives us the opportunity to achieve the things we want to do when it comes to raising our children. And the opportunity to have a better life. We’re just so grateful.”

“Without Habitat I would never, ever have a home.”

“It’s just profound the strength of what women really have,” she says. “Like, you think that men build houses, you know. And really it’s amazing—I thought how privileged I am to have all these amazing women build on one home. It just shows what women can do.”

Be the first to experience Rose Minton’s gorgeous handcrafted quilts and have a chance to purchase your favorite.

Learn about the Minton family’s unique legacy and how you’ve changed lives!

And get an update of Habitat Tucson’s 40th Anniversary, the Minton Court subdivision, and beyond!

What kind of community do you want to live in? Because every time you raise a hammer at Habitat, you’re not just building and improving places to call home, but you’re building strength and self-reliance in a myriad of ways!

GIVE TODAY and double your impact!

Daniel has lived in rental homes his whole life. But that’s all about to change.

After renting the same house for 7 years, Adier is excited to be putting down roots in a home that his family can share for generations.

Mary Catherine’s life changed forever after a rare flesh-eating bacteria infected her nearly 20 years ago. She had 24 surgeries in a matter of weeks, and both legs had to be amputated to ensure she survived. Afterwards, she wasn’t sure she would ever live in an accessible home–until Habitat came along.

“I have learned what community can do,” Mary Catherine says. “When community works together, I am blown away. Whether it’s just two people or all of Habitat, it’s really nice when people willingly help each other in a little community.”

When Mark Thorsrud and Melissa Oliver signed up for their Residential Architecture courses at Pima Community College, they didn’t know they’d be designing a home for Habitat for Humanity. But that’s exactly what happened.

When asked what strength means to Mena, she said, “Strength comes from the union of the family. From being together and relying on each other. We’ve come a long way together. That’s where our strength comes from. Helping each other no matter what.”

“The weight on our shoulder was, ‘How are we going to pay for this?” says Albert, “And then we thought—why not try Habitat?”

As we look back on our 40 years at Habitat Tucson, we can’t help but be reminded of our very first Habitat family!

Janet loves volunteering at the HabiStore. “Every sale helps build houses for people, and we do a lot here – you can see how valuable volunteers are, and it feels good to contribute.”

“I’m trying to serve mankind because I have the ability to do it. And the Lord is honored when you do something like that—helping other people.”

Home means everything to Lidya. Owning one has been the goal for her for as long as she can remember. She says that her heart skips a beat just thinking about it.

A note of gratitude from a Habitat Tucson homebuyer: My journey has almost come to an end. I have five weeks left, and it’s been a long and hard one […]

Join us at Habitat Tucson on December 8 for the Gingerbread Build and celebrate the holidays with friends and family, while helping make the dream of an affordable home a reality for working, lower income families.

Returning University Students,  looking to save money on furnishings? August back to school discount at the HabiStore for college students! The HabiStore sells donated furniture, appliances, décor and more at […]

Nancy first joined the Habitat team 16 years ago. What started out very Mom-and-Pop developed into a thriving community of passionate people – all devoted to the mission that everyone deserves a decent place to live, and everyone can do something to help make that possible for another family.

“That’s all the special things—the workers, the homeowners, the volunteers, the donors—and the mission is on top. That’s what we always come back to,” she says. “That’s why we’re here.”

As our poet laurate, TC is excited about integrating poetry into our community, bringing poetry to other acts of service – because for TC, poetry is a doorway into social justice. “Anytime we encounter something that stretches our understanding of what is possible, that to me feels social justice,” s/he explains. “It feels like potential for change, growth, all of these radical ways of living. And—and and and! I think if it stops at the page, it’s missed a whole deeply, deeply important step in changing the world.”

Habitat Tucson is pleased to announce that it has been certified by Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service, as a Service Enterprise!

In 2013, when Ezequiel and Salome were just 7 and 8 years old, their father abandoned the family. He cut Manuela off from their bank accounts, sabotaged her car, and didn’t pay rent or child support. “After three months we had to move out of our home,” Manuela says. “And at the time Ezequiel’s asthma was out of control – so we were at the doctor quite often, every two weeks.”

But Manuela was determined to care for her family.

Free and open to the public, upcoming community education classes on topics including education, healthy living, career planning, neighborhood safety, and more!

Herb has been volunteering with the HabiStore for the past four years, and he absolutely loves it!

“It gives you a joy to be able to feel like you’re contributing,” Herb says. “It’s a good feeling to know what you do is appreciated. For me to sit at home, I guess that’s just not the way I’m built.”

Joseph and Pricilla have wanted to own a home for a very long time. They want their four children to know they have a safe and stable place to come back to, with the room to grow independent and self-reliant.

“We had looked into buying a house,” said Pricilla. “We just couldn’t do it on our own.”

When they think about what their new home will be like, Adan and Guadalupe picture a completely different life. “Stability, comfort, safety – everything’s going to be better,” Guadalupe says. “Home is where the family is – it’s love. Just being happy together. Just being able to rest and know that everyone you love is there.”

“It goes back to our mission statement,” Judy says. “Decent. Affordable. Decent means the roof is not leaking, the toilet is flushing. There are so many people who need some help, and it’s about knowing when we can say yes.”

In the past year, thanks to generous donations from individuals and community businesses, the HabiStore was able to divert almost 600 tons of building materials, appliances, new and gently used furniture and home accessories from the local landfill. That’s more than double the annual amount the HabiStore typically saves from the landfill!

That’s always been Pete’s favorite part about Habitat – the humanity part. “We treat people – no matter who they are, no matter where they come from, no matter what their story – as equals.”

Each Habitat neighborhood is an extension of that humanity. And it’s something Pete notices, when speaking with homeowners – they absolutely love their neighbors. “They’re not talking about just their house—they’re talking about the people around them. They’re talking about the community,” says Pete. “And I think that’s much more powerful than four walls.”

Both originally from Sinaloa in Mexico, they’re looking forward to a better life for their family. “We experienced violence in Culiacán and we didn’t want that for our children,” says Ana Karina. “We are looking for better opportunities for ourselves and for our children.”

Habitat Stores are home improvement stores that accept small and large donations of new or gently used furniture, appliances, housewares, building materials and more. Proceeds from the sales of these items help Habitat’s work in your community and around the world.

A veteran who served in the 82nd Airborne Corp, John Johnson was struggling with the repairs his aging home required. A friend called on John’s behalf and Habitat Tucson’s Home Repair Supervisor Rebecca arrived and walked him through the process. Getting the call from Habitat came as a complete surprise.

“Helping people is something that we have done our whole lives,” says Charlie.

“Habitat gives people an opportunity for some stability in their life.”

“It’s hard for our parents. They do so much,” says Carlos. But when he thinks of what home means to him, he calls it, “A place where our parents keep us safe. Home means that when it’s raining, we won’t get wet.”

Fatu came from Liberia to Tucson as a refugee eleven years ago.

Everything she does is to provide her children with a better life.

In July of 1997, Habitat Tucson dedicated its 100th home amid music, bright balloons and paper flowers, and prayer, in the Casa Allegra neighborhood. Diana Jackson and her family were celebrating their Habitat journey towards homeownership in the company of their neighbors, families and friends.

Habitat for Humanity Tucson is excited to continue our 25-year partnership with Tucson Electric Power!

TEP has pledged to provide funding for the next three years, teaming up with Habitat to address the local affordable housing crisis through the power of volunteer.

25% off Earth Day Sale at the HabiStore

Your #AZGivesDay donation is a direct investment in our community. Arizona Gives Day is a statewide day of giving that unites Arizonans around causes they believe in.

“If you don’t serve mankind then what are you doing in this world?” says veteran homeowner Joseph Bailey Jr.

Joseph has completed over 150 sweat equity hours in just six months of being in the Habitat homeownership program and he’s loved every minute of it. He’ll be the first of his generation to own a new home. And he plans to leave the home to his daughters.

For Andrea, no act is too small. “It might be like a small little impact, but even the smallest little impact grows into a bigger one. It might take time, it might take years, but it does grow.”

Thanks to her mother, all of Abril’s childhood memories are in one house growing up.

“Before the war, life in the Congo was easy. We worked. It was good. But then we couldn’t stay,” said Singaye, who after a long journey moved to Tucson with his wife Esperance and their five children – Joyce, Florence, Samson, Benny, and Isabella – as asylum seekers.

Elizabeth had not had heating in her home for the last 11 years. She recalls her house getting as low at 32 degrees – literally freezing. Elizabeth would have to bundle up in her husbands’ old sweaters and cuddle with her dogs in bed until late afternoon when the sun finally warmed the house.

Thanks to Critical Home Repair and A Brush With Kindness efforts, she finally had heat in her house this winter.

For the first time in 11 years.

Volunteering tips: Be ready for a Habitat build site

Growing up Richard moved over 20 times with his family. But he wanted something else for his children. Richard had known about Habitat for Humanity a long time and had even volunteered for Habitat in the past, but applying to own a Habitat home had never occurred to him. Look Mom, my friends!’ All these kids are going to grow up together and that’s what Habitat is.”

Resource for Seniors Downsizing. For many seniors, the decision to downsize your home is inevitable but also a potentially difficult decision to make. Whether you are downsizing to cut costs, be closer to loved ones, address medical needs, or to just simplify your lifestyle, the HabiStore is here to help!

Habitat’s Home Repair Specialist, Shianna Searcy, says, “The cost of living is increasing, but most people are on fixed incomes and cannot keep up with expenses. Some are barely surviving.”

The more hands on deck, the more we can do to make sure the homes in our community are safe, strong, and stable.

The people of Nepal, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity, were ready to do the work of transforming people’s lives.  

In this conversation with Mrs. Green’s World, T. Vanhook talks about her recent building trip to Nepal and how generosity of spirit can build hope across the globe.

A retired city judge, Fred has been a mainstay of the Habitat Tucson community since the 90’s. He’s built houses, served on the board, makes generous gifts, and is a devoted HabiStore volunteer.

HabiStore Anniversary Sale – 30% off already discounted items

AmeriCorps members like Claire serve full-time helping families build strong and stable homes, all while gaining real-world experience. AmeriCorps members serve in leadership roles on an active build site and at a local Habitat affiliate assisting families, volunteers and staff.

There’s something really special about people who come through Habitat. That’s what Daniel noticed right away.

Daniel Avila, a civil engineer from Ecuador, was first interested in volunteering at Habitat because it correlated with his degree, and he wanted a chance to learn about US construction firsthand. But he kept coming back as a volunteer because of the people.

It isn’t every day a reporter from London stops by one of the poorest neighborhoods in all of Tucson.

And what he discovered in Amphi was Habitat building more than just houses. He saw how when we come together as a community, what we’re really building together is hope.

The Tucson HabiStore is a good deal for you, our community, and the environment.
The Tucson Habistore is a home improvement store and donation center that sells new and gently used building materials, furniture, appliances, home decor, and more to the public at a fraction of the retail price.

By supporting the Habistore, through donating, shopping, and volunteering, you are not only supporting your local community but also helping promote Habitat for Humanity’s mission to provide families a decent and stable place to live. Through shelter, we empower.

Patricia is an 87-year-old Airforce Veteran living in Tucson. She told our volunteers how thankful she was for their help repairing her home.

Currently, Adriana and her two sons, RJ and Gabriel, share one room in her parents’ home. The boys sleep in bunk beds one side of the room and Adriana crams her bed on the other side.

“I had one of those devastating feelings like I’ll never be able give my boys what my parents had given me and my sisters. But now all my dreams are coming true,” says Adriana, excited be building her home with her own two hands, just like her father did when he built her childhood home. “We’re doing it.”

There’s still time! Time to give families the gift of a warm and happy home. Time to help build strong and stable communities. Time to make a difference—right here in Tucson.

Make a matched gift today, and match each heart with a home.

‘Tis the season for shopping, stylin’ and – of course – Santa! Celebrate the holidays at the HabiStore with FREE photos with Santa and the chance to shop for gifts, holiday decorations, furniture, home supplies, and more! December 15th from 9 am – 12 pm.

Marti Price of Voyage RV Quilters 2 was very busy this year and donated a total of nine quilts to Habitat Tucson, one of which was a special quilt of valor for our this year’s veterans build home.

These quilts are a special memento of an emotional and rewarding day. Our Habitat families work so hard to reach their goal of homeownership. And the home dedication is the apex of their journey and their accomplishments. We like to think of the quilt representing different aspects of the family’s personal journey to this day.

For Gabrielle Bellefeuille, her passions for community involvement and impact led her to Habitat AmeriCorps after her Air Force service. In partnership with Habitat for Humanity, AmeriCorps members work to help our communities build strength, stability, and independence.

John and Sally first worked with Habitat in 1994, when a church group started coming in for weekends on Saturdays to build houses in the community. They were drawn to the hands-on work, the way they could see a difference made palpably in neighborhoods around Tucson. Since retiring, both John and Sally both share their talents with Habitat for Humanity several times a week.

The very first Habitat volunteer. Builder of over 250 Habitat Tucson homes. Devoted father, husband, and community member. All these describe the incomparable Leland Yarbrough.

A gifted carpenter, Leland brought the quality of his craft to the construction team. His faith led him to serve, and thousands of people were impacted by his generosity.

That includes Leland’s daughter, Leah. Recently, Leah’s husband received an unexpected bonus through his work and she was inspired make a gift to Habitat.

“It was a way to honor God and honor our Pops,” Leah said.

Every day, seven people die in home fires, most in homes that lack working smoke alarms. Making sure a home is safe takes more than building a solid foundation. Habitat Tucson, in partnership with the Tucson Fire Department, is ensuring that homeowners have new and working smoke alarms in their homes.

Since 1999, Habitat Bangladesh has helped disaster-affected families in Bangladesh through emergency shelter kits and transitional housing in the early phase of its response.

In this podcast, John Armstrong speaks with Mrs. Green’s World about how Habitat for Humanity works with partners and volunteers to respond to disasters and help families rebuild more resilient homes.

The soil was soft under our shoes, and the community garden was flourishing. But the Literacy Garden was in desperate need of some shade – a respite from the sun, and a place to rest.

That’s where our Lowe’s Heroes came in.

On behalf of C.H. Robinson, we invite you to become a donor for our annual giving campaign, Robinson Cares Week.

Robinson Cares Week will directly support Habitat for Humanity Tucson through online donations and volunteering to help build a home.
 
Help us reach our fundraising goal of $5,000 USD!

Gary Miller received the highly prestigious Volunteer Excellence Award from the 355th Fighter Wing Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. This award is bestowed to individuals who make it a personal mission to serve their communities.

Home improvement is a big job, but the facelift your house gets is often worth the effort and payoff can often include an increase in home value! Here are a few home improvement ideas to try this summer (and most of the items can be found at the HabiStore)!

If our senior citizens can’t afford to add grab bars to make their bathroom safe or can’t afford to make their home handicap accessible when they have a handicap, how will they continue to live safely in the place they’ve called home for so long?

My name is Ji and I just finished an internship with Habitat for Humanity Tucson. I thought this internship would solely be focused on working in the marketing department, but I soon learned it was much more than that. I got to see how all the Habitat Tucson departments worked together towards a common goal, from working on outreach to putting mission into action and working at the build site. 

The Faith Leaders Breakfast is a great way to learn about the work that Habitat Tucson is doing in our local and international communities and how you and your ministry can get involved.

Michelle is a volunteer at the Habitat for Humanity HabiStore, and has been volunteering since mid 2017. She had found her first volunteer opportunity at a different organization to be a negative experience, but quickly found a home within the HabiStore community when she started.

Homeownership is the key to true self-reliance and the next step to greater independence. Barry and Fatimatu look forward to raising their children in a safe and stable home that will give them the foundation they need to thrive as students.

“Education paves the way for opportunity,” says Barry. “We want our children to become the best they can be.”

Saturday, April 21, 2018, 3:00 P.M.
Habitat for Humanity Benefit Concert with Sons of Orpheus Tucson & Phoenix

This simple spring cleaning list includes a list of items commonly accepted at Habitat Stores for each room to help you know what items from your home can be donated to the HabiStore!

When you meet Olivia and her three teenage kids, their positive attitudes would never reveal the adversity they’ve overcome in their lives, thus far. The family has lived in a string of substandard apartments for a long time but they approach tough situations with humor.

Habitat Tucson’s goal of a world where everyone has a decent place to live wouldn’t be possible without the help of our generous corporate partners. We depend on vital partnerships with organizations like the Jewish Community Center (JCC) to help amplify our mission of building affordable homes for Tucson families.

Members of the Delta Chapter of Kappa Delta Chi Sorority joined together with Habitat for Humanity to help give back to the local Tucson community once again. Not only do these women come out to help build at least once per year, they give back to Habitat Tucson in many other ways.

Habitat Tucson’s Aging in Place (AIP) program is a home repair program that serves local limited-income senior citizens and focuses on accessibility improvements, mobility modifications, enhancements and critical home repairs that are crucial to help seniors live in their own homes longer. Karen and Robert have now been in their Carriage Park neighborhood home for 28 years; both 75-years-old and their home has been aging along with them.

Since Fall of 2016, Habitat for Humanity Tucson’s Home and Community Design Committee has partnered with Pima Community College (Downtown Campus) to sponsor a competition for Computer-Aided Design (CAD) students enrolled in the Residential Construction Documentation course. 

John and Marie have finished their sweat equity hours and are almost done with their homeownership classes. John pictures the day of their dedication. “We’re so excited to choose our home. We’ve been to more than five or six dedications and I can’t wait for us to be in that position. Seeing our family partner hold the key to our home and say, this is your house!”

Thanks Wells Fargo for working alongside a veteran in Tucson as part of an initiative to improve 100 homes with former service members across the country.

With the help of kind and selfless volunteers, the Faith in Action Build day was very successful and rewarding. The Faith in Action Build day included 22 volunteers, neighbors and staff from Habitat Tucson. Volunteers completed A Brush With Kindness by repainting the exterior of the house. At the end of the day, the house was completely repainted.

In 2018, as we mark the 50th anniversaries of Dr. King’s tragic death and the passage of the Fair Housing Act just days later, Habitat promises to work harder than ever to help make the beloved community a reality.

Habitat for Humanity Tucson will be 37 years old on Saturday, February 17th! So we are celebrating our partnership in the community by having 37% off Anniversary Sale at the HabiStore! Come wish us a happy birthday and take advantage of this amazing discount on unique and gently used home goods, appliances, and building materials.

Support Habitat Tucson’s Women Build program at The Loft Cinema on Tuesday, February 13th, 2018 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. Hard Hats and Heels: A Benefit for Habitat for Humanity Tucson.

Enjoy yummy refreshments and the comedic acts of local improv group

Ed stands out as volunteer at the HabiStore. Ed shows us what a good Habi-tude is all about!

Carter Inspires Gift to Habitat Tucson. ‘You’ll find a way,’ simple as that.”

Serving in the army can mean moving often and after ten years of service, Richard, Jennifer and their two sons, Brayden and Landon are ready to settle down in Tucson.

Make a tall planter box from pallet wood with these easy steps. DIY Project idea from your local HabiStore.

Free Pictures with Santa
Holiday Sale / NARI – National Association of Remodeling Industry Parking lot Sale

Habitat Hero Story. Holiday 2017 Challenge. Double your impact this holiday season and give a gift to Habitat Tucson.

Spiritual community Aldea partners for service to give to the Tucson community. They have completed 8 neighborhood A Brush With Kindness projects with Habitat for Humanity Tucson.

Interested in getting involved with any of our neighborhood partnership programs? Learn more…

TEP has selected Habitat for Humanity Tucson as one of only five local nonprofit organizations to compete for $125,000 in TEP’s Powerful Choice Challenge!

Tucson Electric Power will be celebrating their 125th birthday on October 28th with a day of service. TEP employees and their families will volunteer their time to help improve a Tucson neighborhood by partnering with LiteracyConnects to repair their property and help Habitat for Humanity Tucson to break ground at Minton Court, a new 9-home affordable housing development in the Amphi neighborhood.

The Rainbow Build is a homegrown build that was started in Tucson in 2005. Born out of an effort for inclusivity, raising awareness and building a strong partnership with the LGBTQA community, the Rainbow Build has mobilized a diverse array of organizations, groups and individuals to fight substandard housing and build affordable homes in Southern Arizona.

These four hobbyists have a lot to offer. Between them, they have a well of knowledge from electrical to woodworking and anything between. Soon, the HabiStore will be offering workshop hours to volunteers interested in learning these valuable skills. The four hobbyists are more than happy to impart their knowledge to willing volunteers!

Join us to celebrate the completion of a safe and stable Habitat Tucson home with a hardworking family.

Homeowner services at Habitat Tucson have put together a program of classes for the community and all Habitat homeowners.

EVERYONE DESERVES A DECENT PLACE TO CALL HOME Too many veterans in our community are living in substandard or unsafe living conditions. Everyone has the right to a warm, safe, […]

Breanna volunteers four days a week at the HabiStore and her hours serve a dual purpose. Not only is Breanna giving back to her community, she’s also gaining experience to enter the workforce. Breanna participates in a job development skills program through Elite Community Services, an organization whose goal it is to empower self-sufficiency and independence for families and young adults.

Since February 2017, he’s put in 500 volunteer hours and counting. His spirit, his imagination and dedication are inspiring to be around and the HabiStore is lucky to have such a good-hearted ranger on the volunteer staff.

Until Habitat for Humanity Tucson, the idea of being a homeowner was nothing but a dream. In fact, I thought it was impossible. I am thankful that I decided to call Habitat Tucson, and I’m even more grateful for the opportunity to become a homeowner. Now I have the freedom to make the decisions regarding my home.

You’re invited to Habitat Tucson to welcome and meet our partners from Habitat for Humanity Mexico. On August 4th, Habitat Mexico will be giving a presentation on the work in the communities of Mexico.

Home dedications are a milestone in the lives of our Habitat families. They’re moving into their new homes and we’re inviting you to celebrate with us!

Passionate about their service, the IBEW Tucson chapter was looking for a way to utilize their professional talents as a way to give back to their Tucson community. Through their partnership with Habitat Tucson, they were able to direct their skills, energy and goodwill at the 2016 Blitz Build—a record breaking effort to build four homes in eight days! 

We’re excited to announce that, as part of its ongoing partnership with Habitat for Humanity, Ethan Allen has donated a range of home goods to Habitat for Humanity Tucson HabiStore. 

Habitat for Humanity recently surveyed 1,000 households in the U.S. and Canada for their opinions on homeownership. Check out this infographic summarizing the results of the survey:

“This means everything for my daughter and me. There’s no other way that I would’ve become a homeowner as a single mother,” she said. “But now, I’m going to own a home.”

June is National Healthy Homes Month.  The goal is to promote the education of housing and the effects it has on health.  A 2016 study showed that Americans spend approximately 90% of […]

Navy veteran James Gunderson and his wife, Barbara, live in their home of 40 years. It’s their sanctuary. Their large family joins them for holidays and other special occasions. But, […]

Imagine. You are a single-mother raising two teenage daughters. You want to show them your determination to provide them a life of safety and happiness. But for years, you’ve lived […]

What is Legacy Giving? Legacy Giving is a way to invest in your community long after you’re gone. Creating a will is a smart and easy way to protect your family […]

On Saturday May 13, nearly 100 volunteers helped drywall, paint, and landscape the newest Habitat Tucson homes during Women Build 2017! See pictures from Women Build 2017. It was a […]

Spring brings a lot of wonderful things – flowers, the Easter bunny, official baseball season, and of course spring break. It also happens to be both Global Service Month and […]

No stranger to construction, veteran Victor Gonzalez is a force to be reckoned with on the Habitat Tucson build site. He wields a hammer with grace and precision that only […]

To address the critical need for affordable housing in Southern Arizona and across the country, Habitat Tucson is joining “Home is the Key,” a national campaign by Habitat for Humanity International […]

Celebrate Earth Day at the HabiStore. 25% off on Earth Day! Saturday, April 22, 2017 Furniture lighting desks cabinets building materials appliances home decor. No sales tax. Take an additional […]

High School Students Volunteer to help a neighbor in need. A Brush With Kindness! High school students joined Habitat for Humanity on a recent project to revitalize an aging home […]

DIY at your local HabiStore Although the Habistore helps to provide unique, quality home furnishings for those on tighter budgets, everyone is welcome, in fact encouraged, to shop at the […]

Sometimes, a smile says it all. This is the smile of Ron Hutter. Ron’s home was in dire need of repair and with the help of Habitat staff and volunteer, […]

Our homes are green. Well… not really — they’re a mix of desert inspired tans, browns and reds. But all of our homes are “Green”. What does that mean exactly? […]

What can one person – or one envelope – do? Building a house can seem like an impossibly huge task. Expensive, labor and so much more go into it. Here […]

This single-mother of two has persevered through 19 years as a refugee. She fled severe poverty and danger during genocide in Rwanda. Homeownership is the next chapter to an incredible […]

Thank you Lowe’s Home Improvement for supporting National Women Build week! Over 100 volunteers helped raise the walls on two new homes in Tucson! These volunteers included members of the Tucson community, […]

U.S. Army Veteran Clarence Vynalek is enjoying a beautiful, secure new fence thanks to Team Depot! Team Depot partnered with Habitat for Humanity Tucson to install a new fence for […]

Congratulations to David Mabior and Achol Kur and their beautiful children who became Habitat for Humanity Tucson homeowners! The couple are receiving the keys to their safe and affordable home […]

The Phoenix Suns Charities surprised us by dropping off this $10,000 check for school build! What a great way to support the kids and help a family with a safe, […]

Thank you Victory Worship Center for helping the neighborhood revitalization efforts in Tucson. Together, we can build a stronger community. Volunteers from Victory completed a community cleanup in the Flowing […]

Thank you volunteers from Team Rubicon USA and Tucson Electric Power for helping Air Force Veteran, Roy Curtis! Last month, the volunteers helped Curtis (20 yrs. service) and his wife. They spread 15-tons of gravel […]

A huge shout out to Larry H. Miller Chrysler Jeep Tucson for supporting our Women Build program in Tucson! Women Build challenges women from all walks of life to help […]

We loved having students from the University of Colorado Denver join us for a few days of volunteering this weekend! The CU Denver students travelled to Tucson as part of […]

Five years ago, Rebecca and her children left a Kenyan Refugee camp and traveled to Tucson, Arizona. The massive journey was a pursuit for a better life, security, education and […]

We are continually grateful for the helping hands from St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church! Volunteers from the church help paint fascia, soffit board, and a porch area giving an aging home […]

We are sharing and exciting moment as Denise chooses paint colors and floor options for their future home! Denise’s 15-year-old son, Raymand, is equally excited. “I’m looking forward to us […]

On March 1, more than 350 employees of California-based Simpson Strong-Tie helped construct new homes in Tucson! The volunteers came from across the country and globe to make a difference […]

  Our AmeriCorps member strengthen communities through a year of service. During National AmeriCorps week, we want to honor the AmeriCorps members that serve Habitat for Humanity locally. Jasmin Lopez-Ortiz first […]

CASA Art Spring Showcase April 13 | 5:30-7pm at Habitat for Humanity Tucson Art for the Senses Habitat for Humanity Tucson | 3501 N Mountain Ave Tucson, AZ (On Mountain just south of […]

Your gift can make affordable, safe homes a reality for hardworking families living in Tucson and Southern Arizona. Your gift can help foster stability and connection to community for generations […]

Last Friday, Habitat Tucson volunteers completed the record-breaking Tucson Blitz Build – an effort to build four homes in eight days! We are ecstatic to see how far the project came […]

Marina Blanco has learned a lot through her HabiStore Volunteer Experience. “I love helping people and this has changed my life,” Marina said about her involvement and continuous dedication at […]

UPDATE While the project described below helped Benjamin and Levolina, the aging residence still needed to be landscaped. A second project helped bring dignity back to the home and the […]

At just 16-years-old, Christina Huynh has major goals for herself and is headed toward a bright future. The high school senior is a star student and recently completed six Advanced Placement courses […]

Arizona provides a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for contributions to organizations that serve the working poor. Recent changes double the amounts that individuals and married couples can make each year under […]

June 2016 will mark the first annual National Healthy Homes Month. National Healthy Homes Month (NHHM) is an outreach campaign designed to raise awareness about home health and safety hazards and […]

Let Chili’s do the cooking while supporting Habitat for Humanity Tucson! Chili’s will donate 15% of event day sales back to Habitat for Humanity Tucson on Wednesday, May 25! This […]

The following is a wonderful thank you note we received from our intern Genna: Dear Habitat Tucson, I just wanted to let you know everything went very well today and […]

Here are seven HabiStore shopping tips to help you make the most of your visit to the HabiStore – whether you are a first-time visitor to the HabiStore or a seasoned […]

We have received a number of calls and emails asking for clarification about the Valspar “Paint a Brighter Future” Challenge. The Valspar Challenge is a remarkable campaign hosted by Habitat […]

Riding a bike down safe streets, summers spent by the pool, the freedom to laugh and play — these are the joys of being a kid. But for Navaeh Angel, […]

Tucson has always been home to Tucson-native Eva Ortiz and Carlos Wood. They have histories and memories here – a gift and opportunity that that they want to provide for […]

“It’s been a journey — an incredible journey,” said Martha Escarcega. “God called us to come.” Martha and her daughter, Brianna, have overcome great challenges, including the loss of her […]

Blanca Campos is always rearranging her furniture. She loves decorating and playing with the way things look in her living space. It’s some of the only peace she finds in […]

“In my mind, I already have my own place to live.” It’s the next chapter to an incredible journey. Single mother and widow, Agnes Uwamahoro, has endured a harrowing and […]

David and his family currently live in an apartment that is plagued by mold and vulnerable to security threats. They have a number of doors and windows that don’t lock. […]

First comes love, and then comes marriage. That’s how it happened for local teacher John Howell and wife Gaby Campos who just welcomed their first-born baby girl. She’s beautiful with […]

Brenda Vargas lost a huge part of her family with the death of her husband and father to their five children just over two years ago. The tragedy left the […]

He’s her dad, her protector and her superhero. Everything that he does, he does for her — including pursuing homeownership. Manuel Sandoval and his daughter Mia are the best of […]

Sharing a small space with many people comes with obvious struggles, but for the Davalos family, struggling for room in their apartment’s sole bathroom causes the most turmoil. The family […]

“Home is something that you can always come back to, knowing that you’ll always have love at all times,” said Adol’s son. “The house is going to make everything better […]

Maria and Richard Delcido were celebrating Richard’s birthday when they got an unexpected present — they received the news that their family had been selected to receive a Habitat for […]

“I have this picture in my head of my house,” said Zulema Altamirano. “This is my dream.” Zulema Altamirano teaches toddlers and children through the Arizona Head Start Program, but […]

After being selected for the Habitat Tucson homeownership program, Elisa and Alfredo Paz quickly completed their required hours of sweat equity. When they chose their lot for their home — Habitat […]

Nights at the Gabriela Ross’ apartment are loud. It’s no fault of her own — her neighbors blast music and cops investigating suspected drug activity often frequent the complex. Then […]

Marcela Ruiz is a hard worker and dedicated mother. The single mother of two works for a cleaning service company and takes on as many assignments and jobs as she […]

Maria de Jesus Gonzalez describes herself as reserved and admits that she rarely lets her emotions show. Such was true when she found out that she was accepted for a […]

Bianca’s story When Bianca Barraza’s close friend applied to the Habitat for Humanity Tucson homeownership program, she learned that owning a home is within reach — something that she never […]

Please join us at one of our upcoming home dedications! Home dedications recognize the combined efforts of our homebuyers, volunteers, donors and staff as we hand over the house keys […]

To Stephanie Yanez, the home of her parents isn’t someplace she occasionally visits. Right now, it’s where she and her 3-year-old son share a bedroom. Instead of it being a […]

In loving memory… On Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016, Habitat Tucson lost a dear friend and devoted volunteer. Bill Scott lived a long, full life. He was a beloved member of […]

Habitat for Humanity Tucson has raised the walls on our 400th house! This major milestone falls within Habitat Tucson’s celebration of 35 years serving families in Southern Arizona. The 400th house is […]

Buffalo Wild Wings® will donate 10% of all pre-taxed sales (less promotional discounts) from any guest that mention Habitat for Humanity Tucson. Every Monday, starting September 14th – At all […]

Carlos Benitez and Luisana Cuen are looking forward to a sense of belonging in their new Habitat Home. They are hopeful and excited about living in a neighborhood where they […]

A Brush with Kindness is a home preservation program that partners with eligible homeowners to paint, landscape and complete minor exterior repairs so they can continue to live in safe, […]

“We’ve gotten used to living this way.” For Juan Duarte, Edith Fimbres and their daughter, Kiara, “this way” includes high rent, a leaky home, unsecure windows and a no sense […]

When Juanita Zabalza and her sons decorate their Habitat Home, it may just be covered in red and blue, with a few pinstripes thrown in. Juanita, Rodrigo and Thomas are […]

Richard Romero Sr. is uncomfortable where he and his son, Richard Jr., are living. He hardly knows any neighbors and everyone is cautious and guarded because of area break-ins and […]

In Loving Memory of Leland  It is with great sorrow that we say goodbye to our good friend Leland Yarbrough, who passed away April 15. We join with his family in mourning the […]

Elizabeth Gai and Solomon Kuch have lived in Tucson for 12 years, but now it will truly feel like home. While the family is thankful for what they have now, […]

Georgina Lopez wants everyone to know that she and daughters Abbie and Jael are so thankful to become future Habitat Homeowners. “We are very happy to get our home! It’s […]

For Candi Gomez, home means love, peace, family and being united. While Candi and her daughter, Vanessa, are grateful for the help of friends and feel safe where they live, […]

When Carmen Verdugo moves into her Habitat Home, it will definitely be a place filled with love and family – and good food! Carmen works in the dental office at […]

Twenty years in a Kenyan refugee camp could not keep John Anyieth and Daruka Ajang from achieving their dreams. John and Daruka, both from South Sudan, have now lived in […]

Shamekia Arron is more than a big sister to Talesia and Demarea. She is also their guardian and guide as they grow to adults. A two-bedroom apartment is not ideal […]

When it gets really cold in Amado, Pedro and Mayra Haro hang up a blanket to partition their borrowed trailer and turn on the space heater. Not the safest way […]

Tucson Electric Power (TEP) presented TEP BrightEE Awards to customers and contractors that took advantage of TEP’s cost-effective energy efficiency (EE) programs to achieve significant energy savings. Winner: Non-Profit Organization […]

As dreams go, owning a home is the best one that could have come true for Giannina. “This came at a perfect time,” she says. “I’m still in shock!” Giannina’s […]

In loving memory of Bob Minton. Memorial service here in Tucson for Bob Minton at 6:30 pm Monday, Jan. 19, at Palo Verde Church of Christ, 651 S. Kolb.  Robert […]

December 2, 2014 4:30 – 6:30pm Habitat for Humanity Tucson 3501 N Mountain Ave. Tucson, AZ 85719 Get your holiday shopping done early while helping to raise funds for the […]

We love when HabiStore shoppers show us their DIY photos!   Breathe new life into vintage furniture gems and antiques, with a little imagination and paint. This up-cycled transformation comes from Julissa […]

Media Release: TUCSON, Ariz. (July 2, 2014) –T. VanHook has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer of Habitat for Humanity Tucson.  The Board conducted a nationwide search before appointing VanHook. […]

    Gabriel & Elizabeth Barreda Photo credit – Ryan Mihalyi Photography Safe New Home for Sahuarita-area Veteran in Nonprofit’s Home Swap By Tom Hopkins, Neighborhood Outreach Manager In addition to building new […]

Christine Felix is a single mother of three.  She remembers the day she was informed that she was selected: “I did not even have the words to explain my excitement, […]

Siria is a single mother of two children: Nathaniel (Drew), 7 years old and Alisiana, 10 months.  She has been a Casino del Sol maintenance and jackpot employee since 2006.  […]

April 13 | 5:30-7pm at Habitat for Humanity Tucson Art for the Senses Habitat for Humanity Tucson | 3501 N Mountain Ave Tucson, AZ (On Mountain just south of Prince Rd) [MAP] Enjoy […]

Thanks to the Tucson Morning Blend for featuring the important work of Habitat for Humanity Tucson on their morning show! On March 24th, 2014, Tucson Morning Blend spoke with a […]

On Friday, March 21, 2014, Copenhagen Imports hosted an amazing fundraiser that benefited Habitat Tucson.  Store owners Jorgen and Cynthia Hansen recruited 17 local artists to create one-of-a-kind artwork using […]

On Saturday March 8, 2014 from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm, Radiology Ltd. partnered with Habitat for Humanity Tucson to build a new home on Tucson’s south side.  Along with […]