Airbnb announced on Apr. 8 that three New York housing nonprofits will receive a total of $150,000 from the Airbnb Community Fund. The organizations—Homeless and Travelers Aid Society, Rebuilding Together NYC, and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh—were nominated by local Airbnb hosts to address homelessness, stabilize homeownership, and expand access to housing in the Capital Region, Hudson Valley, and New York City.
The initiative is part of Airbnb’s broader effort to support communities across New York State. The company said it has contributed more than $3 million to nonprofits statewide in 2025. Each nonprofit will receive an equal share of the funding as part of an annual process where hosts identify key issues and select organizations for support.
Michelle Toch Dinsmore, Albany Host Club Leader, said: “Short-term rental hosts in the Albany area care deeply about the communities where we live and welcome guests. We’re proud to support organizations like the Homeless and Travelers Aid Society that are doing the hard, daily work of helping families find stability and safe housing. This investment reflects hosts’ commitment to strengthening our communities and expanding opportunity across the Capital Region.”
In addition to financial contributions, Airbnb hosts plan volunteer activities with these groups over coming months—including a “build a bed” event in Albany and a homebuilding day in New York City this summer.
Liz Hitt, Executive Director at Homeless and Travelers Aid Society said: “This funding will help us continue providing critical services that support individuals and families as they move from homelessness into stable housing. Partnerships like this allow us to meet people where they are and ensure they have the resources and support needed to successfully transition into stable, healthy homes.” Jessica Miuccio from Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh added: “At Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh, we believe everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. Support from the Airbnb Community Fund helps us build and preserve homes for hardworking families in our community…” Valerie Payne at Rebuilding Together NYC said: “This generous investment will help us continue repairing and preserving homes for the New Yorkers who need it most…”
Abbe Green from Hudson Valley Host Club noted how supporting local organizations was a priority for their group: “As hosts…we’re grateful that the Airbnb Community Fund is helping amplify the impact of groups working on the frontlines…” Jeff Adise from New York City Host Club also praised efforts by Rebuilding Together NYC: “We’re proud that the Airbnb Community Fund allows hosts to give back locally…”
Janaye Ingram, Director of Community Partner Programs at Airbnb concluded: “Airbnb was founded on the idea of community…Through the Community Fund our hosts help guide where we give…We’re proud to partner with groups …that are expanding access to housing…and strengthening their neighborhoods.”
According to the official website, Airbnb enables hosts worldwide to share homes or offer local experiences such as cooking classes or guided tours while fostering authentic travel opportunities for millions globally. The platform operates as a marketplace connecting guests with unique accommodations—including entire homes or private rooms—in more than 220 countries.
Airbnb began when its founders rented out air mattresses in their apartment as a way cover rent costs according to its official site.
