A partnership between Habitat for Humanity of Ottawa County and Commodore Perry Federal Credit Union is opening the door to home ownership for more local families. (Submitted photo)

PORT CLINTON – Habitat for Humanity of Ottawa County (HFHOC) is highlighting the growing partnership with Commodore Perry Federal Credit Union (CPFCU), a Certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), whose support has played a significant role in expanding affordable home construction in Ottawa County.

The relationship began when CPFCU invited Habitat leadership to participate in a community-focused conference exploring strategic partnerships, grants, and innovative financing models. That collaborative environment quickly led to meaningful ways the two organizations could work together to strengthen affordable housing in the region.

One of the most impactful steps has been CPFCU’s assistance in securing Zero Interest Fund (ZIF) financing through the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB). This special financing tool helps local nonprofits cover critical infrastructure expenses — such as roads, utilities, and site development — at a time when construction and land-development costs are rising sharply. Through this partnership, HFHOC was able to move forward with the infrastructure needed for four new homes built in Ottawa County last year.

CPFCU also developed a dedicated Habitat loan product designed specifically for Habitat partner-families. The mortgage product offers fewer barriers than a conventional loan, along with a highly competitive interest rate and flexible terms tailored to Habitat homebuyers.

Habitat homes are not given away. Partner-families purchase their homes with an affordable mortgage, contribute sweat equity, complete financial-literacy and homebuyer education, and must be employed and earn under 80% of the Area Median Income to qualify.

“This partnership with CPFCU reflects what can happen when local organizations work together for the good of the community,” said Debi Heiks, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Ottawa County. “Their support with ZIF financing and a specialized Habitat loan product has directly helped us increase our capacity to serve more families with safe, decent, affordable homes.”

“As a Certified CDFI, part of our mission is to expand economic opportunity within the communities we serve,” said a representative from CPFCU. “Partnering with Habitat aligns perfectly with that mission. We’re proud to support affordable homeownership and the long-term stability it brings to local families.”

Looking ahead, Habitat plans to continue scaling construction and home-repair programs to meet the growing regional need. CPFCU’s involvement is one part of a larger network of banks, credit unions, businesses, churches, and volunteers working together to improve housing in Ottawa County.