General FAQs

CHR (Community Housing and Resources) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides affordable workforce housing on Sanibel.

our vision

Community Housing & Resources envisions being the foremost community leader, most trusted charitable partner, and most effective advocate for affordable housing and services and equitable economic opportunity for all people of Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

we see a future of CHR having—

• A community of residents who are proud to be a part of CHR and who are a diverse mix of populations which are representative of Florida. Our residents are individuals and families in need of affordable housing who support the culture and character of our islands.
• An excellent working relationship with both the City of Sanibel and Captiva Community Panel and the respect of the broader Lee County and Florida as a model for affordable housing and resident resources.
• All existing properties refurbished and new properties built with reimagined facilities to expand our capacity. Alignment of the design and application of our buildings and properties to adapt to changing resident needs and the principles of resilience and sustainability.

• A remarkable staff and robust group of volunteers supporting the respected and accomplished Executive Director. A strong, dynamic, governing Board that focuses on policy and supports the Executive Director to achieve the organization’s mission.

• A thriving, stable donor base that continues to grow including Sanibel and Captiva residents and businesses, vacationers and a broader population of people who value our contributions to society. Systems and technology that support our operations and facilitate control of our data.

• An integral role in the community and a champion of affordable housing and other critical causes on the islands through our representation with local organizations and governments, and through speaking engagements and community education.

mission 

To provide affordable housing and resources for families and individuals who serve and have served Sanibel and Captiva Islands, while maintaining the economic diversity that contributes to the extraordinary culture and continued well-being of our community.

our organization

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on providing affordable housing and resources to eligible individuals on Sanibel and Captiva Islands in Florida. We operate with an Executive Director, valued staff, a volunteer Board of Directors, and a supportive network of dedicated volunteers.

Relationship to City 

“The City of Sanibel cherishes its cultural, social, ecological and economic diversity and will endeavor to maintain it.” Sanibel Plan, Section 1.1 Vision Statement of Diversity

For 46 years, Community Housing & Resources (CHR) has been a cornerstone of Sanibel—ensuring the people who power the island can also be called home. 

As the island’s only nonprofit housing provider, CHR currently has 9 locations and protects workforce housing in perpetuity, preserving the heart and soul of the community.

Unlike in other cities where affordable housing is in strictly defined areas, CHR’s properties are conveniently placed throughout the island in close proximity to resources like jobs, churches, supermarkets, and parks. This allows residents the opportunity to bike or walk.

Qualified families and people who work full-time jobs on Sanibel, as well as longtime Sanibel residents who are retired or disabled.

• Applicants must work full time on Sanibel or Captiva for a Sanibel Business
• Senior citizens or disabled individuals who are not working must be year-round residents on Sanibel, and meet all other program eligility requirements.
• Additionally, there are annual entry income levels that applicants cannot exceed

After meeting basic eligibility requirements, potential residents must fill out an application and pay a $50.00 application fee. The average processing timeframe is 6-8 weeks but we encourage you to apply, apply, apply and get on the wait list.

Rent is calculated on 30% of gross household income. In 2025, our average rent is $1,004.00.

CHR provides affordable housing to an average of 100 people in our homes each year, and 17 of those are children.

• Rent from our residents represent just under 30% of CHR’s revenue,
• We depend on Grants and Private Donations to make up the balance. This includes revenue from our annual fundraisers.

Affordable housing makes living on Sanibel possible for people that otherwise may not be able to, creates diversity on the Island, and most importantly, gives a “hand up” to many deserving people.

• Sanibel’s economy depends on the hundreds of people who provide services through Island retail and other businesses;
• Living on the Island removes the stress and high cost of a long daily commute for workers;
• Workers who live on the Island can be available at short notice and are able to be more reliable employees;
• Social and economic diversity is a priority for Sanibel and a part of The Sanibel Plan;
• Everyone benefits when the Island workforce lives in the community and participates in schools, organizations, churches and community events;
• No one should have to leave a familiar community because of age, disability or finances.

• Browse this website!
• Call the CHR office at 239.472.1189
• Visit the CHR Office, located at 2340 Periwinkle Way Suite L-1
• Like us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SanibelCHR
• Sign up for our email newsletter.