State Farm teams up with Habitat for Humanity of Long Island
The State Farm Insurance Company has teamed up with Habitat for Humanity of Long Island to help create more affordable housing opportunities.
State Farm employees recently volunteered to help build a Habitat for Humanity home in Mastic Beach.
“At State Farm, part of our mission is to help people realize their dreams,” State Farm Corporate Responsibility Analyst Jennifer Young said in a written statement. “In addition to the financial support, our agents and employees volunteer their time for this great cause. We are proud to help neighbors in need on Long Island.”
Besides volunteering at build sites, State Farm has been supporting Habitat for Humanity Long Island since 2020, providing a total $73,000 in grant funding for their affordable housing efforts. State Farm has also had a national relationship with Habitat for Humanity since 1994 and became the official corporate sponsor of the Habitat for Humanity Youth Programs in 2007.
“Habitat for Humanity of Long Island remains steadfast in our commitment to breaking down barriers to affordable homeownership. In the face of a housing crisis that affects many families on Long Island, our partnership with State Farm stands as a beacon of hope,” Jimmy Jack, CEO and executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Long Island, said in the statement. “Together, we build not just houses but futures—where dreams take root, and the warmth of a home extends far beyond its walls. With gratitude to State Farm and the collective spirit of our community, we empower families to thrive, one home at a time.”
The cost of purchasing a home and paying back a mortgage on Long Island can be a problem for many and it’s common for households to spend 50 percent of their income on housing. This leaves families without the financial resources for other basic needs, such as food, clothing, and healthcare.
Through Habitat’s Homeownership Program, future homeowners will fulfill 300 hours of “sweat equity,” helping to build their future homes and houses for others in the program. In addition, they will undergo financial preparation classes and volunteer for community service. Each homeowner will sign a 30-year mortgage with a 2 percent interest rate, with Habitat covering a second mortgage.
The Habitat model ensures that expenses are affordable for their homeowners. Mortgage payments are guaranteed to be no more than 30 percent of the family’s monthly gross income at the time of closing. Additionally, homes are built to be energy-efficient to keep utility payments low. In addition to the benefits for the new homeowners, building safe, affordable homes generates more spending, creates jobs in neighborhoods, and fosters a strong sense of community on Long Island, according to the statement.
