About Us

Chemung County Habitat for Humanity is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a global, nonprofit housing organization working in nearly 1,400 communities across the United States and in approximately 70 countries around the world. We build strength, stability and self-reliance in partnership with people and families in need of a decent and affordable home.

Our History

In 1989, a group of concerned and committed citizens gathered to discuss forming an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International in Chemung County. This group had two primary concerns: the growing number of families in Chemung County that were classified as low-income “working poor” and more than 50 percent of the houses in the City of Elmira were non-owner occupied rental properties. Since its inception, dozens of families have found safe, affordable housing through Chemung County Habitat for Humanity; however, there is still much to be done. 

Our affiliate continues to grow and offer more services to help those in need in our community. We are dedicated to eliminating substandard housing through constructing, rehabilitating and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing information and access to resources that help families improve their shelter conditions.

All are Welcome

Chemung County Habitat for Humanity has an open-door policy. We are willing to partner with all who believe in our vision, regardless of race, religion, age, gender, political views or any of the other distinctions that too often divide us.

Habitat for Humanity International and its affiliated organizations will not proselytize, nor will Habitat work with entities or individuals who insist on proselytizing as part of their work with Habitat. This means that Habitat will not offer assistance on the expressed or implied condition that people must adhere to or convert to a particular faith or listen and respond to messaging designed to induce conversion to a particular faith.

Board of Directors

Chris Snyder, Board President
Norcom Mortgage

John Maloney, Vice President
Keyser Maloney & Winner, LLP

Stacey Root, Treasurer
Woodforest National Bank

Jane Winters, Secretary
Retired Pastor and Chaplain

Caranell Parks
Board President-Elect

Jules Costello,
Warren Homes

Kim Demchak
Alternatives FCU

Joanne Knapp-Elvidge
SUNY Empire State College

Steve McNamara
Howard Hannah

Scott Sevey
Siemens

Staff

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Emily Barrett Emily@chemungcountyhabitat.org

FAMILY SERVICES COORDINATOR
Sheila Russell
[email protected]

CONSTRUCTION COORDINATOR
Al Cooke
[email protected]

PROJECT COORDINATOR
Erik Powell
[email protected]