Coles County Habitat for Humanity is seeking qualified people to apply for a Habitat home. Applicants are chosen according to their need, their ability to repay the non-profit and no-interest mortgage, and their willingness to work in partnership with Habitat. A family of four with an income ranging between $17,100 and $40,480 would be eligible.

Anyone who is interested in completing an application and/or learning more about Habitat for Humanity may attend the meeting and/or call the Habitat office at 348-7063.

Eligibility Criteria

We are currently accepting applications. Please review the criteria below or click here to download an application form in Adobe Reader format.

Habitat housing is intended to assist families who have lived in Coles County for at least one year. The applicants should know that a general examination will be conducted by the Family Selection Committee (FSC) to determine: 

1. the actual need for housing as determined by the condition of the current shelter
2. the ability to pay for Habitat housing
3. the willingness of the family to partner with Habitat

The following is a more detailed description of the three major areas of selection criteria:

1.      Actual need is demonstrated by the applicant’s current shelter being (a, b, or c)

1.    Inadequate or in need of repair such as the structure, heating, plumbing, electrical system, water supply, unsafe conditions, or inaccessibility.
2.   Size of living quarters (i, ii, or iii)
   1. More than 3 family members share a bedroom
   2. School age children of opposite sex share a bedroom
   3.   Each family member has 100 sq. ft. or less space in which to live
3.   Cost of housing:  present home is inadequate if family is paying more that 50% of its gross income for rent or house payment, including taxes and insurance.

2.      Ability to pay for Habitat Home

1. A family of four must have a steady income, ranging from 30% to 70% of the median yearly income ($57,200 for Coles County in 2009).  These criteria may vary due to circumstances. 
2. A family's debt may not exceed more that 36% of its gross monthly income.  The family must also pay a $500 down payment toward the cost of the home.

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3.       Those families that meet the above guidelines will show their willingness to partner with Habitat by giving permission for

1. Two home visits to see the home and meet the family
2. Verification of employment and other income
3. Verification of checking and savings accounts
4. Review of last 3 years income tax returns
5. References from present and past landlords
6. References from utility companies
7. A credit check
8. Criminal and Sex Offender background check

These families will also contribute 200 hours of “sweat equity” per adult applicant by giving their time, energy and personal talents in the actual building of the home. One hundred of these hours can be met by the participation of family and friends.

When all other selection criteria are equally met, the applicant household with the greatest need will be selected.

If you have any questions, contact Cindy Roberts, office manager, at (217) 348-7063.

Support Team

Each homeowner family is paired with someone who is willing to serve as a mentor to help guide them through the many decisions of the building process and assist them in learning skills important to every homeowner. Click here to read more about Support Teams.

Sample House Floor Plan

Coles County Habitat for Humanity uses a standardized floor plan for its homes. The plan may be altered somewhat to accommodate a family's needs. Below is a sample.

Click on the image above for a larger view.

Photo Gallery

Click here to view photos of Coles County's Habitat homes.

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