The “House That Beer Built”: Local watering holes raise money for Habitat for Humanity build

Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley has collaborated with several Washtenaw County breweries and restaurants to fund the construction of a house for a local family through the 2026 House That Beer Built fundraiser.

Local businesses interested in fundraising for Habitat have used the proceeds of certain beers and restaurant-specific campaigns to sponsor the construction of one of the six homes the nonprofit is committed to building each year through House That Beer Built. 

“Our local partners have brought in collaborators that help them make their drinks and it’s gone beyond what we could have anticipated with the folks in Washtenaw County that support us,” says Emma Kalakay, development manager for Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley. “We’ve had folks outside of that area as well. It’s all to support our mission to stabilize homes, individuals, families, and communities across Washtenaw County.”

Since last summer, HOMES Brewery, Arbor Brewing Company, Bill’s Beer Garden, Erratic Ale Co., MAIZ Mexican Cantina, Mothfire Brewing Company, and Witch’s Hat Brewing Company have helped Habitat reach its goal of raising $11,000 to build this year’s house. In addition to the monetary contribution, employees of these establishments have volunteered to help build homes throughout the years.

“Even through COVID-19 and ongoing economic challenges, these partners have continued to show up in really generous ways,” Kalakay says. “We’re really grateful for their commitment to expanding affordable homeownership opportunities in Washtenaw County. There are so many efforts out there that we know need fundraising and we are grateful to have been chosen by our partners for this.”

House That Beer Built has successfully funded construction of a new home for each of eight consecutive years. 

“We just celebrated the home dedication for this year’s home at the end of May, which was such a great time to get to celebrate with the family,” Kalakay says. “They’ll be signing their closing papers and everything in June. … It’s really exciting.”