Minnesota Shows Up for Home at Habitat on the Hill DC

Each year, Habitat for Humanity International gathers advocates from across the country in Washington, D.C., for Habitat on the Hill—an annual legislative conference focused on advancing policies that make homeownership more accessible. This year, Minnesota showed up in a big way. With 29 advocates, including five Habitat homeowners, our state had the most attendees at the event!

Representing 11 of Minnesota’s 24 Habitat for Humanity organizations, these advocates ensured that every member of Minnesota’s congressional delegation and both Senators heard from their constituents about the urgent need for housing solutions. Not only did our advocates attend meetings, but they also took the stage—sitting on panels, presenting project boards, and leading discussions that elevated Minnesota’s leadership in housing policy. 

Advocating for Federal Housing Solutions

During meetings with legislators, Minnesota advocates emphasized key federal priorities:

  • Finalize FY25 appropriations to provide strong funding for housing and community development programs.
  • Support critical housing programs, including:
    • USDA 502 Single Family Direct Loan Program
    • Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity
    • Home Investment Partnerships Program
    • Section 4 Capacity Building
    • Community Development Block Grants
    • AmeriCorps
  • Create a Federal Homeownership Supply Accelerator to boost the production of starter homes.
  • Pass the Neighborhood Homes Investment Act (NHIA) to mobilize private investment in affordable homeownership.
  • Permanently extend the New Markets Tax Credit to support Habitat affiliates in building and acquiring homes.

The Power of Homeowner Stories

While policy details matter, the heart of Habitat on the Hill came from the personal stories shared by homeowners who have experienced the transformative power of homeownership.

  • Teelyn (North St. Louis County Habitat) shared how her journey to sobriety and financial stability led her to homeownership. Today, she is not only a homeowner but also an active North St Louis County Habitat board member, giving back to her community. 
  • Derek (Rice County Habitat) described his challenge of finding accessible housing after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Habitat for Humanity built a fully wheelchair-accessible home in partnership with him, restoring his independence.
  • Jenna (Douglas County Habitat) talked about attending homebuyer classes with Habitat to become an eligible homebuyer. Now, she sees the impact of her home’s stability on her children and gives back to her community as a member of Douglas County Habitat’s board. 
  • LeAndra (Twin Cities Habitat) spoke about the generational impact of homeownership. As the first in her family to own a home, she shared how it became a safe haven in times of grief and a foundation for her children’s future.
  • Carroll (Twin Cities Habitat) shared how her family immigrated to Minnesota when she was a child in search of the American dream. Now, she has made that dream a reality for her children, who always tell her how much they love their home and community. 

Join the Movement

The housing crisis affects us all, but together, we can drive change. You can take action by urging your members of Congress to support bold solutions for affordable homeownership. 

📢 Make your voice heard! Send a message today: https://bit.ly/4guJ2UE

Want to get involved in person? Habitat on the Hill Minnesota will be held at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Tuesday, May 13, 2025! You can speak to your state legislators directly. By telling your story and sharing your knowledge, you can help build a world where everyone has a safe, stable, and affordable place to live. 

📢 Save the date and register today! https://tchabitat.salsalabs.org/hillday25/index.html