MacKenzie Scott donates $9M to Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity

State of play: Low credit scores are one of the main impediments for families trying to get a traditional loan from the bank, said Lance Henning, the group's president.

• Yes, but: When applicants apply for a home through Habitat for Humanity, the nonprofit looks at other factors that can signal someone is financially stable, such as consistent rent payments.

This year, the Des Moines chapter is piloting a new program that offers guidance to applicants who aren't initially accepted, so they can continue to learn how to improve their financial standing and qualify for a home the next time they try.

What's next: The chapter is determining specifics for how they want to use the $9 million, but their goal is to get 50 families into homes every year, Henning said.