Why Housing Matters

At Beaches Habitat for Humanity, we believe that everyone deserves a decent, safe, and affordable place to call home. As a nonprofit organization in Atlantic Beach, our mission goes beyond building houses—we’re building strength, stability, and self-reliance within our community. Through providing affordable housing in Atlantic Beach, we’re empowering families to create better futures for themselves and their children.

The Current State of Housing in Atlantic Beach

Housing affordability is a critical issue in our community. According to the Out of Reach report, the Fair Market Rent for a 3-bedroom home in the Jacksonville Metro area is $2,027 per month. For a family earning the area’s median income, an affordable housing payment is $1,310 per month—far below the current market rates.

The reality is even starker for low-wage workers. Many of our neighbors, including childcare workers, nursing assistants, and cashiers, earn annual wages between $28,380 and $37,150. To afford a 3-bedroom home at Fair Market Rent, a family would need an annual income of $81,080. For someone earning minimum wage ($12/hour), this would require working 154 hours each week.

As a result, one in five families in the Jacksonville Beaches area faces impossible choices between paying for housing and covering essential needs like groceries, healthcare, education, or reliable transportation.

Why Affordable Housing Matters

Affordable housing isn’t just about having a roof over your head; it’s about providing the foundation for a better life. This stability paves the way for generational success, breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering self-reliance. When families no longer need to spend the bulk of their income on housing, they can focus on building a better future.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Brighter Futures for Children: Children in stable, affordable homes are more likely to succeed academically. In fact, the children of homeowners are 116% more likely to graduate from college.
  • Financial Independence: Affordable housing reduces dependence on government assistance. In Minnesota, Habitat homeowners save the state an estimated $6–$9 million annually.
  • Community Stability: Homeownership fosters community engagement, lower crime rates, and economic growth. With a foreclosure rate of less than 2% across Habitat homes in the U.S., the success of these programs is clear

How You Can Help

Building affordable homes requires the support of a dedicated community. That’s where you come in. Whether you’re looking for volunteer opportunities in Atlantic Beach or want to make a financial contribution, every bit of support helps us build more homes and change more lives.

Volunteering in Atlantic Beach is one of the most rewarding ways to get involved. As a nonprofit in Atlantic Beach, we rely on the time and talents of our volunteers to help with construction, office work, and community outreach. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or new to volunteering, we have opportunities for everyone.

Join Our Mission

Our shared vision is a world where everyone has a decent place to live. By supporting Beaches Habitat for Humanity, you’re helping families build not just homes, but also a brighter, more stable future. Together, we can continue to make Atlantic Beach a stronger, more inclusive community.

Visit our website to learn more about affordable housing in Atlantic Beach, explore volunteer opportunities in Atlantic Beach, or donate to support our mission. Because no matter where we come from, we all deserve the opportunity for a better future.

Through shelter, we empower.

Want to get involved? Click here to explore volunteering opportunities or make a donation to support our work!

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