Generous donors are helping Atlanta Habitat homeowners effected by the global coronavirus pandemic to pay their mortgages and remain in their homes.

The Atlanta Habitat for Humanity Home Matters Mortgage Relief fund has received more than $135,000 since its launch on April 26. The funds raised through June 30 will pay mortgages for 270 Atlanta Habitat families who have experienced a job loss or emergency financial hardship related to the coronavirus pandemic. 

Many Atlanta Habitat homeowners work in the hospitality, travel and personal services industries. They have been financially devastated due to furloughs or business shutdowns related to the pandemic. While they seek new jobs, wait for unemployment or other aid, the Home Matters fund has given these homeowners and their families peace of mind.

“We are filled with gratitude for the people who are supporting our mortgage relief fund,” says Lisa Y. Gordon, Atlanta Habitat President/CEO. “Atlanta Habitat homeowners work hard for their homes. They invest sweat equity to build their homes and to meet the rigorous requirements to have an affordable mortgage. Now, many of our families are struggling—from paying their mortgage to purchasing essential supplies, additional food and resources for homeschooling.” The need for this additional help continues due to the ripple effect of this pandemic.”

Because of the uncertainty of this global crisis, the Home Matters fund will continue to accept gifts in any amount. For every $10,000 raised, 20 affected homeowners will have at least one month of mortgage payments paid, and they can continue to have a safe, affordable home in which to shelter during this crisis.  

The Atlanta Women’s Foundation, Equifax and dozens of individuals are among the first to make donations.

Atlanta Habitat offers affordable zero-interest, mortgage payments that average around $500/ month. A portion of the principal payment supports the nonprofit homebuilder’s operations and the continued creation of affordable housing. The organization is committed to working with homeowners; however, it cannot survive the burden of multiple missed mortgage payments. This funding helps to prevent homeowners from missing mortgage payments and being vulnerable to foreclosure.

While the federal economic stimulus package assists commercial banks with options for mortgage relief, Atlanta Habitat is not a commercial bank, and no aid exists for organizations like Habitat to provide a suspension of mortgage payments.