Housing is one of the most fundamental needs of every human being. Unfortunately, inadequate housing threatens the lives and health of the world’s most impoverished populations. In Haiti, a series of natural disasters and decades of economic troubles have left millions either displaced or living in substandard conditions. Before the 2010 earthquake, the country was already experiencing a severe shortage of housing. About 190,000 houses were damaged, and 105,000 more were destroyed in the disaster, adding to the pre-existing backlog of 300,000 houses needed to fulfill the growing shelter needs of the country. A simple walk through the streets of Haiti tells it all. Many of the poor families live in dilapidated shacks built from little more than mud and sticks. More often than not, the roofs leak, and dirt floors turn to mud when it rains. Yet, these communities lack the necessary resources for repairs. It’s truly a sad affair.

We believe every family has the right to live in safety and dignity. A generational home can create stability and security for these families, potentially breaking the cycle of poverty. It’s a way of ensuring that families stay together, healthy and safe because, after all, they have a place to call home. That’s why we decided to step in and help by launching the grassroots project “Homes in Progress” in St Michel de L’Attalaye in Haiti. Under the program, we aim to build a series of low-cost houses for needy families in the area to elevate their quality of life. We assist in sourcing local materials and labor in an effort to support the Haitian economy.