Grant Application for
Northwest Michigan Habitat for Humanity
Mission Statement:
The mission of Northwest Michigan Habitat for Humanity (NMHFH) is "seeking to put God's love into action by bringing people together to build homes, community and hope in Emmet, Charlevoix, and Cheboygan Counties of Michigan." To accomplish this mission, NMHFH constructs affordable, quality housing with low interest mortgages for households working toward purchasing a home, and preserves current housing stock by offering subsidized repair solutions with zero interest financing for current homeowners. To be eligible for our programs, household must have low-to-moderate incomes, and live and/or work in our service counties (Emmet, Charlevoix, and Cheboygan).
Fiscal agent if applicant is not tax exempt:
Tax ID Number:
38-2971056
Contact First Name:
Contact Last Name:
Loral
Kenewell
Address:
1840 M-119 Suite 1
Phone Number:
2313486926
Website:
Project Name:
Bridging the Gap, Pilot Phase: Affordable Workforce Homeownership
Project start and end dates:
July 1, 2026
June 30, 2027
Amount Requested:
$
12000
Project Description:
Northwest Michigan Habitat for Humanity (NMHFH) is implementing the four-home Pilot Phase of the largest affordable housing development in the Straits area’s recent history: a 22-home neighborhood in the Village of Mackinaw that will provide permanent workforce housing for families earning 120% of Area Median Income (AMI) or below. This initiative directly addresses the housing crisis that has priced over 50% of our local workforce out of Emmet County.
We will complete the pilot phase of the Mackinaw development, constructing the first four single-family homes on a 4.1-acre site transferred to Habitat by the Village of Mackinaw for $1.00. These energy-efficient homes, designed with accessibility in mind, will serve our community’s workforce who are currently struggling with uncertain housing or unsustainable commutes. To support this important work, we request $3,000 per home to support construction costs.
Goal of the Project
How many people will you reach?
47
What percentage are female?
55
If your program serves both males and females, how will Hestia funds specifically target women and girls?
While NMHFH serves all types of households, women and girls represent a significant segment of our program partners. Single mothers consistently rank among the most common demographic among our applicants. Recent program participants include single mothers and women working in law enforcement, education, marketing, and hospitality—women who are essential workers in our community, but remain priced out of safe, affordable housing.
These Hestia funds, if awarded, will directly support women and children by creating pathways to stable and secure homeownership, fostering long-term self-reliance and financial stability. This investment strengthens both individual families and the broader community by retaining essential workers by reducing housing insecurity.
How are recipients identified or selected to receive services? Is financial need considered?
NMHFH is an equal opportunity housing provider and complies with all state and local fair housing regulations. Our program is open to all interested community members in our service area. Selection is based on income level and ability to obtain a mortgage.
To be considered eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Household income must be between 30-120% of the Area Media Income (AMI).
2. Applicants must receive a mortgage approval that is sufficient to support monthly payments covering principal, taxes, and insurance.
By serving our community in the 30-120% AMI band, NMHFH ensures that resources are directed toward households that lack access to the open housing market.
What do you hope to achieve? What difference will this make in the lives of women and girls?
How will this project meet Hestia's mission statement?
NMHFH seeks to provide four households with the foundation they need to achieve stability and self-reliance through affordable homeownership.
Providing women and their children with an affordable and stable home changes their lives forever. In addition to an affordable home, NMHFH educates our program partners on how to become self-sufficient through financial coaching and credit counseling. With these skills, and an affordable, safe place to live, they can accomplish so much!
Women can save and plan for the future. Their children can use their new “home base” to succeed academically and enjoy healthier lifestyles. These lessons are then passed on to the next generation, creating generational stability and financial security. With your support, we can make this all possible for four more households in our community.
How will you evaluate or measure your success:
By Summer 2027, four homes will have been constructed and sold/in the process of being sold to income-eligible households.
Grant Project Budget Form
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