ECHFH assists families by building safe, well constructed homes. Working in partnership with low-income families, ECHFH utilizes volunteer labor and donated funds to provide a “hand up”, not a “hand out”, on the construction of their homes. East Cooper Habitat for Humanity (ECHFH) is a non-profit, Christian housing ministry that believes that every man, woman and child should have a decent, safe and affordable place to live. ECHFH assists families by building safe, well-constructed homes. ECHFH utilizes volunteer labor and donated funds to provide a “hand up,” not a “hand out,” to its partner families. Homeowners are selected based upon their need, their demonstrated ability to handle personal finances, and their willingness to contribute a minimum of 350 “sweat equity” hours during the construction of their home. Upon completion, Habitat homes are purchased by the homeowner using an affordable mortgage.