Habitat for Humanity of the Red River Valley outlines homeownership program, asks for land and volunteer support

Carissa Moran, homeowner services coordinator for Habitat for Humanity in Moorhead, told the Human Rights Commission on Sept. 18 that her affiliate serves Cass and Clay counties and focuses on affordable homeownership for households typically earning between 50% and 80% of area median income.

“We build about four to five homes a year, and we have built 78 homes since 1991,” Moran said. She described the program’s three main selection criteria: need (housing conditions and cost burden), ability to pay (using HUD AMI guidelines) and willingness to partner through required “sweat equity” — generally 300–550 volunteer hours depending on household composition.

Moran said most Habitat mortgages are offered at 0% interest; a second, non‑payable note covers the subsidy and is repaid only if the family sells the home. The affiliate uses donations, its ReStore proceeds, grants and partner programs to cover gaps and sometimes sells mortgages to banks to accelerate cash for new homebuilding. Habitat staff noted that when mortgages are sold, terms depend on the bank partner; they said they work to keep rates affordable.

Moran said land is the program’s most pressing constraint: parcels suitable for safe, residential development are hard to find at prices the nonprofit can afford. The affiliate also needs construction volunteers with trade skills and partners to buy mortgages or provide donated lots. Moran asked commissioners and community partners to refer potential sites and volunteer mentors.

Commissioners said they would explore a community “housing day” to coordinate partners and resources. Moran recommended interested residents visit the Moorhead ReStore and contact the affiliate about committee volunteer opportunities and land donations.

No formal actions were taken; staff offered to provide the commission with program materials and application timelines.