Habitat for Humanity Guatemala works for and with families in need of a safe and affordable place to live. Offering more than simply a handout, we support these families and improve their quality of life by facilitating their access to housing while at the same time, requiring their collaboration and commitment to changing their own lives. Our effect is a lasting one, meant to reverberate through generations of each family through the financial skills, security, and pride that result from working with Habitat.

HFH Guatemala has provided more than 30,000 housing solutions nationwide. This has made 2% impact on the housing deficit over 30 years. Sweat Equity, or Ayuda Mutua Just as in the States, in Guatemala future Habitat homeowners must contribute their own hard work and time as part of the process of obtaining a home. We call this principle “ayuda mutua,” or in English, “sweat equity.”  The idea is to promote cooperation between families in the construction of their homes, and to encourage their prolonged participation in the work of Habitat for Humanity in their local community.  Ayuda mutua also helps us reduce the cost of building a home, promoting the principle that by working together, we all benefit. The time and type of collaboration varies in each affiliate and according to the abilities of each family.

Responsible and Transparent Stewardship: While the average house price this year (2010) is around $4,800 USD, the cost varies according to the situation of each family, including the house design, the location of the house, and the preparation needed, such as retaining walls or leveling, before construction can begin. The loan recovery time is typically ten years, with monthly payments usually between Q365 to Q450 ($45 - $55 USD).

Rotative Fund
The monthly homeowners payments are used to build more houses according to the principle of “A House for a House,” meaning that by paying off their home, each Habitat family effectively provides a home for another family in need. Currently, 70% of the funds used to build homes come from the payments of our partner families. These funds are held in an account called the Fund for Humanity. New donations from tithe partners, individuals, Global Village participants, corporations, foundations, or institutions – national and international – represent growth, or brand new families served. We recognize the obligation we have to our partners - be they donors, other Habitat affiliates, volunteers, or partner families - to manage our programs and funds transparently, efficiently, and responsibly. Our success would not be possible without their fabulous support.