Mennonite
Central
Committee

House Against Hunger

The idea to build a house to raise money for MCC originated at a Goshen, Indiana, relief sale. At the 1986 relief sale, several men, inspired by the quilts some women had made, decided that they would like to build houses to raise funds for MCC. Today men and women work together to build houses that benefit MCC.

Business and tradespeople have generously donated materials and labor and hundreds of volunteers have worked together to provide significant funds for MCC.

 

Steps to build a house for hunger:

1. Organize

Local committees organize house projects by bringing together persons familiar with the building trades and housing industry. MCC staff are experienced in assisting interested persons in organizing house projects.

2. Publicize

Past experience says your community will support your efforts. People, regardless of denomination, will rally to the cause. Good publicity that educates about the needs of the global family will provide an opportunity for others to support the project.

3. Solicit

Simply present the needs for your house project to local building supply businesses and invite participation. Keep solicitations low key.

4. Finance

Interest-free and low-interest loans from individuals and banks have provided construction capital. Cash donations from churches, business and individuals also help fund the project.

5. Volunteers

Shoulder-tapping will be essential to find the skilled and unskilled volunteers needed for the project. Good organization on work days (work to do and people to do it) will generate additional enthusiasm for the project.

6. Selling The House

It is important to receive fair market value for the house. Whether sold by auction or through realtors, a good quality house, consistent in value with the neighborhood in which it is built, will be a plus for the community.

 

To donate materials or to take part in MCC's House Against Hunger project, contact your nearest MCC office.