Purpose: Building simple, decent houses for God's people in need.

Habitat for Humanity International is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry. It seeks to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world. It invites people from all walks of life to work together in partnership to help build houses with families in need.

Through the volunteer labor and tax-deductible donations of money and materials, Habitat builds simple, decent houses with the help of the homeowner (partner) families. Habitat houses are sold to partners families at no profit, financed with affordable, no-interest loans.

The Denton Habitat Affiliate encourages sponsors such as church groups to furnish half the cost of a house. The Affiliate furnishes the other half from revenue of mortgage payments and fund-raising. The sponsors are also asked for a 10 percent tithe of the home's cost. This amount is sent to build a house in Mexico.

In November 1997, First Baptist Church agreed to sponsor its first house. The funding was completed in September 1998, and the house was begun. Volunteers were recruited from the church family for many types of jobs. These included planning, contributions, skilled and unskilled laborers, and of course, prayer support. This house was finished and dedicated in February 1999. The generous financial support by the congregation is an indication that this ministry will continue.

One of the most appealing aspects of working with Habitat for Humanity is that building a house provides a tangible opportunity to live out one's faith. Giving of one's time and talents makes faith come alive.