CEO Corner: Continuing Habitat’s Mission During COVID-19

Dear Friend of Atlanta Habitat,

The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) scenario continues to impact communities across our nation and the world, and, like you, Atlanta Habitat continues to monitor and follow carefully–not only the recommended guidelines from public health and elected officials—but critical policy decisions that impact our families and our core business. As you know, Congress recently passed a record $2 trillion stimulus package. Our staff is reviewing the legislation and the support it provides to individuals, families and organizations. We are encouraged that, as businesses shut down and unemployment rises, it extends much-needed aid to people who are impacted.

While the stimulus package assists commercial banks with options for mortgage relief, Atlanta Habitat is not a commercial bank and no aid exists for organizations like Habitat to provide a suspension of mortgage payments. However, affordable housing advocates–including the Habitat network–are working with Congress on behalf of nonprofits like ours.

Many of Atlanta Habitat’s homeowners work in the service, retail and hospitality industries. We are working closely with our families to identify how the crisis is impacting them as they are forced to shelter in their homes. They are overwhelmingly grateful that they have their homes to safely protect them during this time, but they need continued support to weather this uncertain season. We appreciate your continued commitment to Atlanta Habitat and will be sharing information with you throughout this pandemic.

The Atlanta Habitat Leadership Team understands that we will need to adapt to a swiftly changing environment, given both the health and economic impacts to our mission. The organization is built on a strong foundation, thanks to your committed support. We continue to steward our resources wisely as we navigate the times and remain hopeful that better days are ahead.

As Atlanta Habitat’s offices and ReStore remain closed and our team works remotely to continue essential business and family support, please know that we appreciate you and pray that you and your family remain well.

Thank you and be safe!

Sincerely,

Lisa Y. Gordon, CPA
President and CEO