CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL (Chambana Today) — Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County will begin accepting applications next week for its 2026 Homeownership Program, offering local families an opportunity to pursue affordable homeownership through the nonprofit’s partnership-based housing model.

The application period opens June 2 at 10 a.m. and closes June 16 at 5 p.m. Applications will be available online and in person at the organization’s ReStore location in Champaign.

The program is designed to help families achieve long-term housing stability and financial empowerment while working alongside volunteers and community supporters to build their homes.

“Becoming a homeowner is hard work,” Family Services Director Allison Garrett said in a release. “But when we come together — volunteers, donors and families — we create a powerful force for lasting change.”

Habitat officials cited several housing trends highlighting the need for affordable housing in Champaign County. According to the organization, the county needs more than 4,000 additional homes by 2030 to meet demand. Officials also said rental costs have increased 41% since 2019, while 44% of county renters are considered rent burdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing.

The organization said home building permits in Champaign County have declined by 51% since 2021, while Habitat has increased its affordable housing production by 40% over the past year.

Applications can be completed online through Habitat’s website or picked up at the Champaign County ReStore, 1914 Glenn Park Drive in Champaign, during business hours. Officials emphasized that applications will be reviewed by the family services committee and are not processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County has built 143 homes since 1991 and works with partner families to promote financial literacy, self-reliance and stable housing opportunities.