Building Homes, Communities, and Hope: The Proven Impact of Habitat’s Affordable Homeownership Program
- habitatheartland
- Apr 22
- 4 min read
We’ve always known that safe, affordable housing changes lives. Now we have the numbers to prove just how far that impact reaches.
Habitat for Humanity Canada, in partnership with Deloitte, has completed a national economic and social impact study of our affordable homeownership program. The findings confirm what we’ve seen firsthand in communities across Canada — including right here in Heartland Ontario: that access to affordable homeownership is a catalyst for personal and economic growth.
Based on detailed survey responses from over 600 Habitat families and data on Habitat’s investments in housing construction and rehabilitation, the study captures both the individual and collective impact of our work. And the results speak volumes.
A Stronger Foundation: Health and Well-Being
When a family moves into a stable, affordable home, everything changes. They can take a deep breath — literally and figuratively.
73% of families report their physical health has improved
79% say their mental health is better
74% can better manage disabilities
77% report fewer respiratory issues
Families that once struggled with unsafe rentals, poor air quality, and frequent moves now have a place to thrive. That stability means fewer trips to the doctor, better nutrition, and the ability to manage chronic health conditions. As one homeowner said:
“We are much happier and healthier as a family.”
Education and Opportunity for the Next Generation
Homeownership doesn’t just change today — it shapes tomorrow.
Half of the parents report their children are doing better in school
68% say having a quiet space to study has helped with that success
41% of adults in Habitat homes have pursued further education
That means more adults enrolling in college, apprenticeships, and university programs — and children building confidence and motivation in a stable learning environment. The impact of this kind of long-term educational growth will continue to ripple forward for generations.
Financial Security That Grows
Affordability isn’t just about rent or mortgage payments. It’s about the ability to build a future.
51% of families feel more financially secure
32% are better able to save money
40% can pay bills on time
50% say they’re now able to take part in more leisure activities — something many couldn’t afford before
Habitat homeowners aren’t just staying afloat — they’re starting to plan ahead. Whether it's saving for a child’s education, a family vacation, or long-term retirement, that kind of financial breathing room makes a big difference.
Stronger Communities and Deeper Engagement
When people feel secure in their homes, they invest more in their neighbourhoods. That sense of pride and ownership helps build stronger, more connected communities.
50% of families take part in more community events
52% report volunteering more
One-third are more engaged in civic life, like voting or participating in community meetings
We often say that home is where hope grows — but it’s also where neighbourhoods grow stronger.
A Clear Economic Impact
The study also reveals a significant economic benefit — not just for the families we serve, but for Canada’s economy as a whole.
From Construction (2019–2023):
$306 million invested in building and renovating homes
$311 million in total economic output
$40 million in tax revenue generated
These numbers reflect not only the direct costs of construction, but also the ripple effects — the jobs created, the local materials purchased, and the wages spent in local communities.
From Homeownership (2006–2023):
Average increase in income: $7,525 per household, after inflation
That’s three times more than what similar renters earned over the same period
$65 million in total income growth for Habitat homeowners
Habitat homeowners’ GDP contribution is 28% higher than if they had continued renting
Every year going forward, existing homeowners are expected to add $35.7 million to Canada’s GDP
This is long-term, ongoing economic growth — driven not by profit, but by people.
Real Families. Real Change.
One respondent shared her story:
“I was a single mother of three, working two jobs and still struggling to keep a roof over our heads. We were constantly being forced out of rentals due to rent increases and poor living conditions. When I got the call from Habitat, I cried. This was the first time I felt safe. Now, ten years later, I’m still in that home. My kids are thriving. We’re not just surviving — we’re living.”
That story is echoed by hundreds of others across the country. These aren’t handouts — they’re hand-ups. And they’re working.
What This Means for Habitat Heartland
For us at Habitat for Humanity Heartland Ontario, these results validate the work we do every day across the six counties we serve. The volunteers, donors, and community partners who support our mission are not just building homes — they’re helping create lasting, measurable change.
Affordable homeownership works. It strengthens families. It boosts local economies. It builds better communities. And it creates hope.
We’re proud to be part of that work.
Download the full study here
About Habitat for Humanity Heartland Ontario
Habitat for Humanity Heartland Ontario is a charitable organization dedicated to building strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. Serving the regions of London, Middlesex, Oxford, Elgin, Brant, Norfolk, and Perth, the organization works alongside volunteers, donors, and community partners to create safe and affordable housing for families in need. By providing a hand-up rather than a hand-out, Habitat empowers families to break the cycle of poverty through sustainable homeownership. In addition to building homes, Habitat for Humanity Heartland Ontario also operates ReStores, where donated new and gently used items, such as furniture, appliances, lighting fixtures, décor, building materials, tools, electronics and more, are sold to fund building projects and support local communities.
For more information, visit Habitat for Humanity Heartland Ontario.
