Habitat for Humanity maintains that every man, woman, and child should have a safe place to live in dignity. In southern Santa Barbara County, the high cost of living and .5% vacancy rate means hundreds must live in overcrowded, unsafe, or cost-burdened housing conditions. They may also commute long distances to and from work. Habitat Santa Barbara eliminates substandard housing through constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing access to resources and training to help families and individuals improve their housing conditions.

By raising housing standards, Habitat for Humanity and its volunteers provide:
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Stability for families and children
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Sense of dignity and pride
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Health, physical safety and security
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Increase of educational and job prospects