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Connecting Hometowns: A New Partnership for Affordable Housing

In an inspiring move to support local families in California, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has partnered with Habitat for Humanity California to launch the "Connecting Hometowns" initiative. This two-year partnership aims to create pathways to homeownership for families in Northern and Central California, coinciding with National Homeownership Month, emphasizing the importance of safe and stable homes.

The Challenge of Homeownership in California

High home prices and a constrained housing supply have rendered homeownership a distant dream for many families in California. As of 2024, the median home price in the state skyrocketed to over $800,000—more than double the national average. Only 16% of Californians can afford to purchase a median-priced home, which highlights the pressing need for initiatives that can foster affordable housing options.

A Generous Investment from PG&E

PG&E's commitment includes a charitable contribution of $500,000 specifically to aid in building ten Habitat projects in the region over the next two years. This funding will facilitate home builds, restoration projects, and other community-focused endeavors, while also enabling PG&E employees to volunteer their time and skills to support their local communities.

Debbie Arakel, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity California, expressed her excitement: "We are thrilled to launch Connecting Hometowns with PG&E during National Homeownership Month, when we celebrate the power and promise of a safe, stable home. This investment will significantly boost the development of new affordable homes and support vital repairs to keep families safe and healthy in their homes."

Projects Benefiting from the Partnership

Local Habitat affiliates have been selected to apply for five separate grants of $50,000 each for 2025, aimed at supporting various initiatives throughout PG&E's service regions. The recipients include:

• - Habitat for Humanity Sonoma County: A new, four-townhome affordable housing development in Sebastopol.
• - Nevada County Habitat for Humanity: Early-stage construction of a new, four-home affordable housing project in Grass Valley.
• - Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco: The construction of five playhouses, donated to local military families and nonprofits serving children.
• - Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley: Restoration of a historic four-home apartment building in San Jose.
• - Habitat for Humanity Greater Fresno Area: Preparations for building 20 new homes and upgrading existing infrastructure in Firebaugh.

This comprehensive approach not only aims to increase the availability of affordable housing but also seeks to engage local communities through active participation of PG&E employees.

Long-term Impact of the Initiative

This partnership aims to deliver more than just shelter; by promoting homeownership, the program seeks to enhance overall community stability, improve health outcomes, and support children's academic success. With the foundational belief that homeownership is a cornerstone of economic mobility, the initiative aspires to create a more equitable future for all Californians.

Carla Peterman, Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Chief Sustainability Officer at PG&E Corporation, emphasized the broader implications of the partnership: "The American dream of owning a home has become out of reach for too many families. Habitat for Humanity helps families overcome obstacles to realize homeownership. We are proud to invest in Connecting Hometowns, as thriving families contribute to thriving communities."

A Legacy of Support

PG&E has a long-standing history of supporting Habitat for Humanity through both financial contributions and volunteer hours. Importantly, this funding comes from PG&E shareholders, reflecting the company's commitment to community well-being rather than burdening customers with costs.

As the Connecting Hometowns initiative unfolds, it promises to deliver lasting change in the lives of many families, fostering robust communities and creating opportunities for generational wealth. Together, PG&E and Habitat for Humanity are setting a powerful example of community investment and engagement aimed at addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time: affordable housing in California.

About PG&E

Pacific Gas and Electric Company is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving over 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com.

About Habitat for Humanity California

Habitat for Humanity California is a nonprofit organization that enhances access to safe and affordable housing across the state by working alongside local affiliates and communities. Through collaboration and advocacy, they empower families to build better living conditions, thereby contributing positively to community development.