The Paterson Habitat for Humanity received $4.5 million in donation from author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

Funds will be used by the nonprofit organization to build affordable housing for more families.

“We are humbled by the transformative, life-changing gift that Ms. Scott has extended to us,” Scott Millard, head of Paterson Habitat for Humanity, said. “This ground-breaking donation will allow us to invest more aggressively in expanding our services and mission impact across Passaic County. We are overwhelmed by the generosity of Ms. Scott and profoundly grateful she has chosen to put her faith in our ability to address the affordable housing crisis across Passaic County.”

Donation comes at a time building homes has become more expensive. For example, in Paterson the price of a buildable lot increased fourfold since before the pandemic, according to the nonprofit.

“A gift of this size, especially during these challenging times, brings us renewed hope for the possibilities it creates and for the recognition it brings to the dedicated leaders, staff, and volunteers of Paterson Habitat,” said Giancarlo Di Lonardo, president of the Paterson Habitat board.

Scott gave a total of $436 million to Habitat for Humanity International and 83 other affiliated organizations.