MacKenzie Scott Donates Millions To Habitat For Humanity

SEATTLE — Habitat for Humanity housing projects across Puget Sound got a big boost Tuesday after a sizable gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. Scott's latest round of donations includes $436 million to dozens of the organization's affiliates across the globe and four in Western Washington.

In a news release Tuesday morning, Habitat for Humanity said $15 million of the donation would support efforts in five Washingon counties: King, Pierce, Thurston, Clallam and Kittitas.

"We're extremely grateful for this investment in Habitat," said Brett D'Antonio, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Seattle — King & Kittitas Counties. "This historic and generous donation will have an immeasurable, multi-generational impact for families in our communities and our region for many years to come. The gift will expand our resources to maintain housing affordability when building and restoring homes and help fund land acquisition and home construction."

The nonprofit noted the fast-growing "affordability gap" across the region, with an estimated 75 percent of residents priced out of home ownership at the current — and skyrocketing— median sale price. In Washington, one in seven households is classified as cost-burdened, paying more than half of their annual income for housing.

The Federal Reserve estimates that the average homeowner's net worth is more than 44 times higher than a renter's, and Habitat for Humanity said this week's gift will help them help more families close that gap.

"To be recognized with a donation from Ms. Scott is truly humbling," said Maureen Fife, CEO at Habitat for Humanity's Tacoma/Pierce County branch. "Our top priorities will be to increase our capacity to effectively provide lasting housing solutions and increased stability for local families and individuals."

Scott's Habitat for Humanity donation follows an announcement from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which received a $281 million gift last week. According to Forbes, Scott's net worth landed at $48 billion after her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. She signed on to the "Giving Pledge," joining other billionaires in a commitment to donate more than half of their wealth.