Pune, 23rd August 2024: Leading housing non-profit organisation Habitat for Humanity India, in its ongoing commitment to empower marginalised communities through shelter, handed over 15 climate-resilient homes to families belonging to the Katkari tribe living in a tribal hamlet in Wada village located in Khed block of Pune district, Maharashtra. The handover ceremony held in Wada village was graced by Jonathan Reckford, Chief Executive Officer, Habitat for Humanity International, who personally handed over the keys to the new homeowners. He was joined by Anand Kumar Bolimera, National Director, Habitat for Humanity India and the local community. These homes are generously supported by philanthropists Ashish Kacholia, Lucky Investment Managers; D. C. Patel, Managing Director, Laxmi Board and Paper Mills Pvt. Ltd.; and Gopal Ramakrishnan, Managing Director, Goodrich Maritime Pvt. Ltd.

Habitat for Humanity India identified the 15 families who were living in vulnerable and inadequate housing conditions earlier. Construction of climate resilient homes began in December 2023. These homes are designed in a unique way and consist of a living room, kitchen, bedroom on the first floor, bathroom, and a toilet as well as a veranda. The climate-resilient features of each home include natural ventilation, natural light, solar rooftop and rainwater harvesting system.

Jonathan Reckford, Chief Executive Officer of Habitat for Humanity International, who personally handed over the keys of these homes to the families said, “As we hand over these 15 climate-resilient homes today, we are not just providing shelter; we are building a foundation for a more sustainable and secure future. Habitat for Humanity is driven by the vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live, but today, we face an unprecedented global housing challenge compounded by an equally unprecedented climate crisis. The families we partner with are often among the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, facing severe weather events that can devastate their homes and lives. We believe it is our responsibility to use our voice, experience, and influence to drive change within communities and the broader housing sector. Globally, Habitat focuses on the eleventh United Nations sustainable development goal—making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. Our goal is to ensure that the homes we build today contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for all."

Anand Kumar Bolimera, National Director, Habitat for Humanity India said, "Today marks a significant milestone in our mission to provide safe and resilient housing to those who live in poor housing conditions. These 15 climate-resilient homes in Khed not only represent our commitment to sustainable development but also align with the Government of India's vision of 'Housing for All.' By engaging local communities throughout the construction process, we aim to empower families and foster a sense of ownership and resilience that will benefit generations to come. Habitat for Humanity India's work complements the Government's efforts by ensuring that the most vulnerable communities are not left behind. We believe that every family deserves a decent place to live, and through our partnership with donors and the community, we are making that vision a reality, one home at a time. We are immensely grateful to our supporters, Ashish Kacholia, R. Gopal, and D.C. Patel, whose generous contributions have made this project possible.”