Habitat for Humanity is a global nonprofit housing organization that works nationally and internationally to provide housing and shelter to communities. They were founded in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller. It has since become a world leader in addressing inadequate housing conditions and has partnered with many organizations to remedy this deficiency.
Their mission does not only focus on providing shelter, but simultaneously supports sustainable development, advocating for affordable housing, and promoting dignity and hope for local communities. They reach all over the world, both nationally, and to places such as Asia, the Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
People all over the world are advocating for Habitat for Humanity in a manifold of ways. Some are becoming directly involved in the effort to build shelters. Others are supporting on a legislative level to mediate rules and regulations that inhibit affordable access to decent housing. In certain places, uninformed policies can make it difficult for people to find land for construction or build a home. Habitat for Humanity wants to combat these sorts of policies and laws in a non-confrontational, nonpartisan manner.
The goal of Habitat for Humanity is to provide shelter because of the incredible effects that this shift can have on communities and families. It is a fact of the world today that, every day, more and more families struggle to have dependable shelter. According to their website, “Habitat for Humanity knows that safe, decent and affordable shelter plays a critical role in helping families to create a new cycle, one filled with possibilities and progress. Affordable homeownership frees families and fosters the skills and confidence they need to invest in themselves and their communities. The outcomes can be long-lasting and life-changing.” They view shelter as not an end-all-be-all, but a platform for communities to continue to grow from.
This process, of course, is not just an effort on behalf of the organization, but of the numerous volunteers who give up their time to help build houses. There are many different chapters, regions, and possibilities to be involved in either building or donating money or materials. Check here to find what options make the most sense for you.
Studies conducted, according to Habitat for Humanity, show that housing quality directly links to success in academics and the well-being of children. Homeowners show better financial conditions, improved graded, and other tangible benefits of having reliable and stable conditions.