With the rising cost of land and the lack of livelihood opportunities in the countryside, resettlement is usually not a viable option for millions of Filipino families in urban areas who continue to live in communities and houses that are unhealthy and unsafe. A more workable option is to improve the communities they now live in-an effort that requires the contributions of all sectors of society: government, churches, civil society, business, etc.
Thus, Habitat for Humanity Philippines invites all people and organizations of compassion to Adopt a Community by helping in one or more of the following components:
- Community organizing & values formation
- Working for land tenure
- House renovation or rebuilding
- Community infrastructure
- Livelihood, health, and the environment
- Promoting a culture of savings
House Rebuilding/Renovation
Families in need may choose to rebuild their houses or to renovate them. Renovations focus on the following elements of a house:
- A strong roof
- Four sturdy walls
- A decent bathroom
Individuals and organizations can take part in helping needy Filipino families transform their existing homes into decent, durable and affordable shelter through the Save-and-Build method. This is a house-financing scheme wherein the families in need and "Friends of Habitat" become full program partners. Other support is obtained from the international family of Habitat organizations worldwide.
Community Development
Other Friends of Habitat, including other foundations, corporations, churches or faith-based organizations, etc. could also adopt a community by addressing its other developmental needs, such as:
Land tenure: Non-government organizations working with the urban poor could organize a community and assist in acquiring ownership over the land the residents have settled on, or by acquiring other land they could relocate to, through the government's Community Mortgage Program.
Community infrastructure: Local governments could build needed infrastructure, such as concrete roads & pathways, drainage systems, septic tanks, or clean up creeks or esteros in the area. Utility companies could establish electrical, water and even telephone or Internet connections. Other partners could build multipurpose halls, day-care centers, clinics, etc.
Values formation: Churches and faith-based organizations are welcome to spread the word of God and assist community members in applying their faith to their daily lives, including the problems they face as a community.
Other programs: Other Friends of Habitat could initiate in the community other programs, such as on livelihood, skills training, savings & microfinance, preventive health care and herbal medicine, garbage recycling and the environment.
Getting in touch
Interested parties who wish to partner with Habitat for Humanity Philippines in adopting a Habitat community or any community of their choice can contact Ms. Meyan Mendoza, Product Manager for Adopt-a-Community, through the Philippine National Office or through hfhphil@yahoo.com.
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