Housing-Related Charities for Holiday and Year-End Giving

The HouseLens team has noticed something wonderful about real estate agents: they love to give back. We’ve also noticed that they’re passionate about the American Dream of homeownership and about housing-related issues.

And of course, this is the season when thoughts turn to holiday and year-end giving. In that spirit, here’s a list of our favorite housing-related charities agents might like to support.

(Interested in a charity but want to make sure your donation will be used responsibly? Charity Navigator is a respected resource for vetting your giving.)

Habitat for Humanity

The granddaddy of housing charities, Habitat for Humanity provides safe, affordable housing for families around the world. Volunteer teams help the organization build and renovate properties, which are then sold at cost to needy families. The organization also operates Habitat ReStores, where the public can buy donated home goods and house parts, with the proceeds benefiting Habitat.

Fisher House

This charity provides temporary housing so families can stay with a loved one who is undergoing treatment at a military hospital. Fisher House currently operates 67 houses on military bases. Over its 25 years of existence, the organization has saved military families more than $282 million in housing costs.

Christmas in Action

Christmas in Action was founded in 1972 and has chapters in 10 states. Through the organization, community volunteers complete free home repairs for low-income homeowners who are elderly or disabled. (Note: this charity is not listed in Charity Navigator, but it was recommended to us by an agent who has worked with the organization.)

YWCA

For women in abusive relationships, the lack of a safe place to live is a major barrier to escape. The YWCA operates shelters and job-training programs around the country to help abused women and their children start a new life.

Gilda’s Club

For many families, getting effective cancer treatment means traveling far from home. Gilda’s Club provides housing and other support so families of cancer patients can stay near their loved ones. To donate, find a local chapter by googling “Gilda’s Club [your city]” (e.g., “Gilda’s Club Nashville”).

UNHCR

The office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees provides shelter and other essential help to refugees worldwide. Programs include building temporary housing, installing safe water and sanitation systems at refugee camps, and providing nutritious food to refugee children.

Is there a housing- or real estate-related charity you want others to know about? Share in the comments!