Habitat focuses on working with local communities and governments to provide permanent or transitional housing solutions to those whose lives have been afflicted by catastrophe. Habitat’s approach focuses on providing technical assistance and project management expertise to disaster response projects. Many families often lose their livelihoods in a disaster so, unlike in regular Habitat programs, they are not in a position to repay loans. However, families are encouraged to contribute materials and “sweat equity” in rebuilding their homes and communities.

Transitional bamboo shelter from Bhuapur project

In mid 2007, heavy flooding affected various areas of central Bangladesh. In response, HFH Bangladesh and HFH Japan jointly supported more than 600 people by building 122 flood-resistant houses with sanitary latrines in the Bhuapur Flood Rehabilitation Project. These bamboo transitional shelters were elevated four feet from ground level in order to withstand the flood water.

In November 2007, Cyclone Sidr, Bangladesh's worst named disaster, killed some 3,500 people, injured tens of thousands and displaced 2 million. In particular, over 1.4 million homes were destroyed or damaged. In early 2008, HFH Bangladesh implemented its Cyclone Sidr Rehabilitation Project with assistance from the Christian Aid Ministry. This project directly supported 2,400 people by providing 480 transitional houses with sanitary latrines to cyclone-affected families. This project also focused on knowledge transfer and awareness building. This involved developing relevant education and communication materials, conducted training on hygiene promotion for the 480 families, and delivered a public awareness campaign on disaster management. Click on the below image to download PDF of the Habitat for Humanity Cyclone Sidr booklet:

Please click the above image to download a PDF copy of the Habitat for Humanity Cyclone Sidr booklet