About Us

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What are Matthew Homes? The Matthew Homes concept was birthed by ReNew Communities, a faith-based non-profit 501 (c) (3). This is an affordable housing program for low and middle income families in need of housing. Matthew Homes are clustered near each other, so families have an opportunity to know and help each other, and nurture community relationships. The Matthew Home program is about families—families who are willing to get to know their neighbors, care for one another, and engage in the well-being of their city. These are keys to a thriving community that any family would want to live in.

What is ReNew Communities? The Surber family is working through ReNew to help families in North Chicago. ReNew is led by Dr. David Weil, who moved into North Chicago, along with his wife Susan and two other families. ReNew is focused on a strategic model of home ownership, job growth, and community engagement.  Learn more about ReNew here 

Why North Chicago? North Chicago is a community of 16,000 people with wonderful assets, great potential, as well as great needs. North Chicago has double-digit unemployment, struggling schools, no grocery store, gang activity, and a 34% home ownership ratio (the average ratio in Lake County is 75%). Social scientists have established that communities that dip below 70% home ownership are moving toward decline and instability. Those who own their home tend to engage more with their neighbors, the schools, city services, safety around their homes, and increasing economic and social wellbeing. North Chicago needs home-ownership.

How much will each home cost? ReNew has an excellent acquisition team who is constantly on the hunt for inexpensive homes that are structurally solid. We work closely with the city of North Chicago and a local realtor. Purchasing and remodeling a home in North Chicago will cost approximately $115,000 to $150,000. This includes home purchase, rehab materials, labor, and administrative costs. Costs can vary depending on in-kind donations and volunteer skilled labor.