Habitat Bangladesh

Habitat Bangladesh Celebrate International Women’s Day in a Different Way

2010-03-15T12:07:00.007+06:00

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Habitat for Humanity International -

Bangladesh

gathered over 50 women to build homes with beneficiaries in South Rajashan in Savar on Friday 5^th of March.

Forty women signed up for the 2^nd annual Women Build event with Habitat

Bangladesh

and they were joined by eight other women staff of Habitat

Bangladesh

and female beneficiaries.

The event has been generously sponsored by Bangla Trac, Neway

Bangladesh

and its sister concern Guardian Travels and Cargo Limited.

At the opening ceremony Habitat Bangladesh’s National Director Ms. Kelly Koch expressed happiness on the fine blend of participants from the Bangladeshi and expatriate communities. Ms. Koch said, “It is very exciting to witness you all actively participating to contribute to the lives of other women and their families.”

The three female homeowners, Rumi Begum, Rina Begum and Rasida Begum and their families worked tirelessly all through the day, and expressed their gratitude to the volunteers for assisting to build their new homes.

An exciting addition to this year’s Women Build was an Open Dialogue among the participants. Two facilitators; Ms. Quazi Baby and Ms. Samia Ahmed led the participants on discussions of the topics: Women at the Workplace; Challenges and Opportunities; and Women’s Land Rights and Inheritance Issues. The Dialogue was very lively and the participants, Habitat home-partners (beneficiaries) and staff actively shared their views on the issues.

Quazi Baby is the founder and Executive Director of Participatory Development Action Program (PDAP). Samia Ahmed is currently the Director for the South Asia Forum on Responsive Business and has spent a number of years working for ActionAid

Bangladesh

, most recently leading the Stop Violence against Women, Women’s Rights & Gender Equality Sector.

Beneficiary Rumi Begum was a perfect example how homeownership empowers women. Rumi Begum works at a garments factory and saved enough money to buy 1.5 decimal land which was in addition to the .5 decimal which she inherited from her father. Rumi Begum commented during the discussion, “I think my future is secured because if my two sons do not take care of me when I am old, I would not fear loosing this house as I own the title of the land now we are building our Habitat home on it.”

The day was all about helping each other, meeting new friends, making a practical difference and reflection on the circumstances of women across

Bangladesh

Women Build is a fundraising and awareness building concept of Habitat for Humanity around the world. It has gathered involvement from women and support from men to carry forward Habitat’s mission in eliminating poverty housing. Women participants in these builds vary from home-makers to professionals, celebrities and representatives of different organizations and institutions.

Empowerment of Women: Ensuring Housing and Land Rights

2010-01-26T13:01:00.008+06:00

On Saturday 30^th of January 2010 a seminar on “Empowerment of Women: Ensuring Housing and Land Rights – MDG 3” was organized by Association for Development Agencies in Bangladesh (ADAB) and Participatory Development Action Program (PDAP) at the National Press Club in Dhaka.

Kelly Koch, National Director of Habitat for Humanity International – Bangladesh was invited at the seminar as a Special Guest.

Speech of Ms. Kelly Koch at the seminar on “Empowerment of Women: Ensuring Housing and Land Rights – MDG 3”

“I’m fairly new to Bangladesh. But from Habitat for Humanity’s 10 years of operation here, we have witnessed a major gender disparity in different aspects of life. The adult literacy rate for women is estimated at 48 per cent. Dowry and dowry-related violence is still widespread, and women are the most likely victims of acid attacks. We have one of the highest rates of child-marriage in the world and many women still die in childbirth. The Constitution of Bangladesh guarantees equal rights to all citizens, yet laws still discriminate against women. Women who are dependent on men for land and housing are vulnerable to violence and economic deprivation.

Habitat Bangladesh encourages women to play an active role within their families, primarily through home-ownership, decision-making and training. As women tend to be the primary care-takers of and care-givers within the home, we emphasize that women take leadership within their communities. More than half of Habitat home loans to date have been served through agreements with women.

Habitat Bangladesh also works closely with female-led Community Based Organizations across rural Bangladesh. Our experience with loan-based programs has shown that working directly with men requires more extensive monitoring, while women borrowers are more responsive to social guarantees and encouragement from their peers. Looking at the gender disparity we recognize that having the land title in the name of women ensures that she obtains improved status within the family and society.

A great achievement for Bangladesh is that enrollment rates boys and girls in primary and secondary education has equaled. However fewer than half the children who complete primary school reach expected standards. There is a direct relationship in children performing at school and having a safe, comfortable space at home where they can study. Mothers also play a major role in supporting children in their learning. A number of mothers have said another major reason for taking on a Habitat home loan is to ensure their adolescent daughters have privacy as they get older – somewhere to study, grow and live with security. Education is a key tool in increasing the status of women.

Contributing financially supports a sense of empowerment for many Bangladeshi women, and Habitat homes provide a place in which women can work to further their livelihood. One of Habitat Bangladesh’s Homeowner Rubina Akter uses a corner of her Habitat home to sew clothes and dress materials which she later sells. Another female Habitat homeowner Rashida Begum uses a space of their little land to take care of her cow. Each day when the cow is milked the family uses some for their own needs, and then sells around two and half liters for extra income.

If we take examples of widows, it is too often a case that a widow is deprived of her matrimonial home and driven away, ending up destitute. Therefore inheritance rights of women and girls should be promoted and protected to safeguard their human dignity.

When we visit Habitat houses women proudly show us their homes and introduce us to their families. Having a clean and safe house in which they can raise their children or earn an income increases their confidence immensely.

One of our current program focus is on Hygienic Sanitation Facilities and Hygiene Promotion in Rural Bangladesh. This project will provide access to improved sanitation and hygiene conditions for low-income families in our program areas. The project aims to promote a healthy environment for all; with a particular focus on women, children and adolescent girls. By coordinating with local CBOs, we aim to proactively target women-headed or inhabited households, in order to promote their empowerment, gender equality, safety and wellbeing.

Last year we celebrated International Women’s Day by organizing a volunteer house building activity for women called ‘Women Build’. We invited economically solvent women join Habitat’s women beneficiaries in building their homes. The event developed skills and furthered understanding between women from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. We will be hosting yet another Women Build in March. I invite my fellow women colleagues to attend the build. Please speak to me afterwards should you wish to join us on the day.

Five of the eight Millennium Development Goals require the promotion of women’s land and livelihood rights. All development results cannot be sustained without addressing the different needs of women and men. We have found women to be particularly good with their money, in terms of stretching resources and repaying their loans on time and joining as an active partner in development. Let us continue to work proactively with women-focused housing and livelihood programs. Let us create opportunities for women to gain knowledge, strengthen their skills, and increase their ability to earn, educate and lead their families and society.

Thank you!”

Habitat responds after devastating Haiti earthquake

2010-01-17T13:00:00.012+06:00

Habitat for Humanity will address housing needs in Haiti after major earthquake.

Habitat for Humanity International is assessing the impact on affordable housing and response options in Haiti after a major earthquake struck near Port-au-Prince on Tuesday.

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (Jan. 13, 2010) — Habitat for Humanity International is currently assessing the impact on affordable housing in Haiti after a 7.0 earthquake struck near Port-au-Prince. Habitat for Humanity will develop an appropriate response as need and available resources become clearer.

“Habitat for Humanity will mobilize all available resources to address shelter solutions for low-income families affected by the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Haiti on Tuesday,” said Torre Nelson, area vice president of Habitat for Humanity International’s Latin America and Caribbean office. “We are closely monitoring the situation and have been in contact with Habitat for Humanity Haiti. We will begin Habitat’s recovery efforts as soon as possible.”

“Habitat for Humanity is sending an assessment team into the impacted area,” said Kip Scheidler, senior director Global Disaster Response, Habitat for Humanity International. “Once we know the full magnitude of this disaster, we’ll begin Habitat’s recovery process.”

Habitat for Humanity has been at work in Haiti for 26 years and will use its local expertise and mobilize resources as part of the rebuilding efforts. Habitat has provided more than 2,000 families with housing solutions through a variety of initiatives including new home construction, progressive building, home repairs and improvements. It also builds capacity in construction skills, disaster mitigation and financial literacy, and works in coordination with community and government agencies.

The number of affected persons is unknown, however, Haiti’s ambassador to the U.S. has called the quake a “catastrophe of major proportions.”

Habitat for Humanity’s ability to respond effectively to this disaster will require support from donors, volunteers, corporate partners and other community organizations. Donations can be made at www.habitat.org.

About Habitat for Humanity’s Disaster Response Habitat’s Disaster Response focuses on the housing needs that arise from natural disasters and humanitarian emergency conflicts. Habitat offers expertise in technical information; program design and implementation; and disaster response policies, protocols and procedures. We also provide support and informational resources for disaster mitigation and preparedness―helping communities in disaster-prone areas protect themselves against future threats.

About Habitat for Humanity International Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built, rehabilitated, repaired or improved more than 350,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 1.75 million people. For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit www.habitat.org and www.habitat.org/ap.

Photo: Reuters/Eduardo Munoz, courtesy www.alertnet.org.

Deepest Sympathy to the People of Haiti

2010-01-14T12:16:00.005+06:00

Habitat Bangladesh is sending thoughts and prayers to the Caribbean Island of Haiti, which was hit by a 7.0-magnitute earthquake on January 12^th 2010.

The fatalities are said to be somewhere in the thousands, however it may be days before exact figures are known. Many people are still missing.

Habitat for Humanity International will mobilize all available resources to address shelter solutions for low-income in affected areas. Our ability to respond effectively to this disaster will require donations from volunteers, corporate partners, regular donors, and other community organizations. Your support is vital to our efforts.

If you would like to assist the people of Haiti, please follow this link: https://www.habitat.org/cd/giving/donate.aspx?link=227

Haiti is the poorest nation in the Americas - seventy per cent of its population lives on less than $2.15 per day and half of its 8.5 million people are unemployed. As Bangladesh is frequently ravaged by natural disasters, we understand the deep personal and physical damage which such an event inflicts.

For further information about the earthquake and Habitat for Humanity in Haiti, see the links below.

Map of affected area: http://www.habitat.org/lac_eng/.

General information about the Earthquake (hosted by Thomson Reuters): http://www.alertnet.org/

Background on HFHI – Haiti and past disaster response information: http://www.habitat.org/intl/lac/89.aspx.

Open Mind, Open Arms, OPEN BUILD

2009-12-08T12:32:00.016+07:00

More than 50 enthusiastic volunteers joined Gazipur homeowners to build and renovate houses on Saturday the 5th of December, as part of Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh’s first ever OPEN BUILD event.

The one day build marked the United Nations International Day of the Volunteer, and hosted participants from Australia, The United States, The United Kingdom, India, Japan and Bangladesh. OPEN BUILD, held in the Kaliganj district which is northeast of Dhaka, focused on recognizing the basic right every person has to adequate shelter and sanitation.

The event is part of the International Volunteer Week Celebrations, coordinated by the United Nations Volunteers association under the theme of Volunteering for Our Planet. Other events focus on Climate Change action and AIDS awareness and prevention.

Each building site held an infusion of humanity, with volunteers, homeowners and Habitat staff learning from local masons, being assisted by a throng of curious children and people from the neighbourhood. One volunteer, Jeanie Manibusan, said she “really loved how the community came together and the children of the village tried to find a way to become a part of the project. It really made me happy to meet the family that would benefit from the build”.

A light-hearted day of heavy-lifting ensued, and while the weather was perfect for a relaxing Saturday, the dedicated volunteers quickly broke a sweat as they relentlessly worked through to the afternoon. Four teams renovated two houses and turned what began as unassuming mounds of dirt into the foundations for three new homes.

Shakil, the son of homeowner Ruby Akhter, proved to be an inspiration to volunteers at one building site. HFHI-B staff member Forkhan Uddin made a particular connection with Shakil. “I was so motivated seeing his smiling face. I can’t forget the words “Aktu Jiran” (regional Bangla phrase meaning “please take rest for a while”) which he mentioned several times to me. That was great assistance for me in my work,” Mr. Uddin said.

Volunteer Sarah Goulding reflected; “a woman and her child are being assisted to build a house, which will be a life-changing event for them. I think the community also benefited from seeing foreigners taking the time to help out.”

Volunteerism transforms the pace and nature of development and benefits both society at large and the individual. Events such as Open Build provide an invaluable opportunity to be reminded of the hopes and challenges that unite us all, despite cultural, language and socio-economic differences.

International Day of Prayer 2009 observed in piety at Habitat Bangladesh

2009-10-21T16:23:00.008+07:00

266 people across seven communities shared thoughts for the homeless and destitute this September, as Habitat for Humanity International in Bangladesh gathered for the International Day of Prayer.

The intent of the day is to place in the hearts, minds and souls of people everywhere; the idea that squalid, unsafe, often expensive housing is unacceptable.

Special prayers have been offered for the millions of people who become homeless due to the effect of war and natural disasters such as floods, cyclones and earthquakes.

International Day of Prayer was observed on the 15^th of September in the Chapel of Mymensingh Baptist Church in Kachijuli. The Habitat team at the Mymensingh Satellite also issued letters to churches requesting offers of prayers on Sunday for those in need of decent shelter.

Celebrations organized by the Durgapur Satellite occurred on the 18^th of September at the YWCA conference room in Netrakona. Habitat staff, Advisory Board Members, Church and NGO leaders shared prayers, songs and tea on the day.

Habitat’s Madhupur Satellite held the largest International Day of Prayer meeting on the 20^th of September, which took place at the Church of Bangladesh Social Development Program in Edilpur (see picture above). The 85 guests included Tribal leaders, School teachers, and children of Usha children village, and speeches highlighted Habitat’s works in providing safe accommodation for all human beings.

Local organizations and churches joined the Savar Satellite of September 29^th to observe the day at the Glory Baptist Church in Anandapur. The participants “contributed their time in interesting and blissful prayer”, Savar Satellite coordinator Lydia Barikdar reported.

On the same day, 34 people met to pray at the Satkhira Satellite, Sultanpur. The program included prayers led by; Social Worker Mr. Mizanur Rahman; Father Joha of the Sultanpur Catholic Mission; Pastor-Rabindronath Sarker; Divisional Program Manager Masudul Hasan of the Khulna Habitat Resource Centre and Mr. Ankur Robert Chowdhury, Satkira Satellite Coordinator.

On September 30^th, Khulna Habitat Resource Centre held a prayer meeting led by Community Development Officer Mr. Roton Patrick Marandy, and was attended by community groups, church members and NGO Directors.

“It was a nice time to reconcile and rebuild our relationship among all the people of our community without discrimination,” Mr. Marandy said.

More than 35 people attended at the service at the YWCA Conference Hall in Dhaka, thoughtfully led by Reverend Sourov Folia, Principal at the St. Andrews Theological College. A choir from the College welcomed guests to the afternoon by gently singing a number of hymns.

Particular Prayers for the day included a Prayer for Human Dignity, a Prayer for those in Slums, a Prayer for Peace & Prosperity, a Prayer for those in Authority and a Prayer for those Helping the Poor.

Dr. Peter Halder, President of the HFHI-B National Advisory Board and long-term Habitat supporter, addressed the group with the message that while not everyone is in a position to donate financially or support Habitat, prayer is always possible.

HFHI-B National Director Ms. Kelly Koch recognized the importance of partnerships – with individuals, organizations, communities and with God - to fulfill Habitat’s mission of providing shelter for the millions of homeless around the world.

“We call upon you to join us in prayers so that we can come up with specific projects and programs, advocacy and networking plan and necessary funding and resources to address to the housing need of Bangladesh,” Ms Koch said.

“Let’s spend these moments in prayer for our less fortunate brothers and sisters who live without a place to call ‘home’. Let us take a conscience action to end homelessness; lets us be united in belief that rights to decent housing are a matter of conscience not a choice,” she concluded.

Gorgeous in Green and Beautiful in Blue

2009-10-12T15:25:00.017+07:00

Bangladesh was brightened on October 5th as supporters of Habitat for Humanity International wore green and blue in celebration of World Habitat Day.

Workers and students from across the country participated in World Habitat Day, which provides an opportunity to focus on the dire need for adequate shelter for all, and the active search for solutions.

The symbolic campaign of NIL SHOBUJER BHALOBASHA (for love of blue and green) represented Habitat for Humanity colors – green for the home environment (habitat) and blue for family and community (humanity).

Nearly all the students from the International School Dhaka dressed in blue and green for the day. Other teams going to particular effort included the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the Participatory Development Action Program, the American Alumni Association as well as Habitat Staff from Mymensingh and Dhaka. See below for photographs of participating groups.

In rural Bangladesh, 84% of homes are inadequate or temporary. 54% of urban-dwellers live in temporary structures. Millions of Bangladeshi families live with insufficient electricity supplies, unhygienic water and sewerage connections, which lead to serious health concerns and a lack of human security.

“We understand perhaps more clearly than ever before that no-one can be excluded, especially the poor. On World Habitat Day, let us pledge to do our part to follow through on our plans for a better, greener, more sustainable future for our increasingly urban planet.” (United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon)

Though the current programs of Habitat for Humanity International - Bangladesh are rural and semi-urban focused, it recognizes the need to comprehensively address issues arising from exponential urban growth.

For the poor who live in overcrowded, unsafe, unsanitary, unacceptable conditions, planning must also be more equitable. To break the cycle of poverty means creating sustainable communities where people have access to affordable land and enjoy secure tenure rights.

HFHI-B is working tirelessly in achieving these goals and aims to serve 1,500 families before World Habitat Day 2010 comes around.

Wear Green and Blue to Celebrate World Habitat Day Tomorrow!

2009-10-04T09:49:00.009+07:00

World Habitat Day emphasizes the dire need for adequate shelter for all.
This year’s focus for World Habitat Day is smarter planning to cope with the demands of rapid urbanization, as cities and towns feel the effects of climate change, resource depletion, population growth and economic instability.
Please join Habitat for Humanity International – Bangladesh and participate in a symbolic campaign of NIL SHOBUJER BHALOBASHA, by wearing green and blue on October 5th. Email a photograph of yourself, your friends or colleagues dressed up in green and blue and it will be displayed on the Habitat Bangladesh website.
We need to take conscious action! Join Habitat Bangladesh in the campaign to eliminate substandard housing throughout Bangladesh.
Send your photos not more than 1 MB in size to: habitatbdrd@yahoo.com

United in Spirit, Strategy and Service

2009-09-23T15:01:00.007+07:00

~ Habitat Bangladesh Staff Retreat 2009

Habitat For Humanity International – Bangladesh (HFHI-B) is set to serve 10,000 families within the next three years.

In August over 60 HFHI-B staff members from around the country attended the annual retreat in Savar to share emerging developments and challenges, and to discuss a new direction for the organization.

“United in Spirit, Strategy and Service” was the theme of the retreat, providing an opportunity for staff to become familiar with the new strategic direction; unpacking the detail (ki?), why we are changing (Keno?) and how we hope to achieve the vision over the next three years (kibhabe?).

The Strategic Plan until Fiscal Year 2012 will improve building technologies, adapt repayment schedules to ensure affordability, establish strong partnerships, secure further funding and alternate support and strengthen internal work practices.

More specifically, HFHI-B is aiming to attract a dedicated Advisory Board of nine diverse and influential members who will actively advocate for HFHI-B. It is essential to receive guidance from experienced community leaders in order to further engage with government, business and academia.

HFHI-B will engage in participatory market research in order to increase expertise in building and construction. Research will focus on product design development, such as load-bearing blocks and prototype houses to ensure appropriate, affordable, sustainable products and services for our target population.

A major new activity for Habitat Bangladesh is the emergence of mutually benefiting partnerships. In essence, partnerships aim to enable HFHI-B to serve more families - whereby partner organizations take a direct (Implementing Partnerships) or supporting role (Non-Implementing Partnerships) in Habitat projects.

At the Savar retreat, staff provided valuable feedback on the expected effectiveness of Habitat Bangladesh’s evolving direction. The consensus was that the delivery of every HFHI-B mission focus will be significantly improved after the implementation of the FY12 Plan.

National Director Kelly Koch believe the retreat was “a great opportunity to be all together but it’s only the beginning. However it is just one forum for unity – let’s continue the communication, discussion and action throughout the year.”

The more immediate focus – the 2010 Fiscal Year plan - includes serving 1,500 families - 30% through implementing partnerships, reducing the impact of disasters in vulnerable communities, offering engaging CSR opportunities and developing research and appropriate technologies.

Habitat Bangladesh conducted an initial assessment in Cyclone Aila affected areas

2009-06-07T15:55:00.007+06:00

More than 3 million people have been affected by Cyclone Aila, which struck 14 coastal districts of southern Bangladesh on the 25th of May 2009. A total of 167 people were killed and 7,108 people injured. The cyclone caused the destruction of estimated 225,000 houses and the partial destruction of 337,000 houses.

As an immediate step, Habitat for Humanity International – Bangladesh (HFHI-B) completed an initial assessment of the situation. The assessment team visited the most affected four districts - Bagerhat, Jessore, Khulna and Satkhira and collected information through direct observation, discussion with affected community members, held meetings with local government, other stakeholders and NGOs, and took photographs of the affected areas.

During the assessment, a need for short and long term shelter assistance has been identified for the affected communities. It is suggested that shelter materials/kit, including CI sheet, bamboo poles, CI wire, ropes, nails, tools and so on, could be provided for building temporary shelters.

Recommendations have been made that these materials will then be reused during the rehabilitation phase involving construction of disaster resilient transitional shelters.
HFHI-B is willing to concentrate its disaster recovery efforts in Shaymnagar and Ashashuni Upazila of Satkhira District. In these areas, a total of 105,767 houses were fully damaged and 50,631 houses were partially damaged. These two upazilas alone make up 46% of the national damage figure. The population is extremely vulnerable as many depend on fishing as a livelihood.

HFHI-B has an active satellite or field office in Satkhira and is working closely with partners on the ground to develop a coordinated response among the cyclone Aila affected communities. It is envisaged that HFHI-B will commence a rehabilitation project in Satkhira, once emergency relief efforts have ceased.

HFHI-B has successfully completed its Cyclone Sidr Rehabilitation Project (CSRP) in Patuakhali and Barisal districts this year. Under the project it constructed 480 transitional shelters and 480 sturdy sanitary latrines for the families. HFHI-B has been Building Homes and Changing Lives in Bangladesh since 1999. Over 2200 homes have been built for families in Bangladesh who now have a safe, decent and secure place to live.

To donate or to know more on HFHI-B’s Cyclone Aila response please write
Visit the following link to learn more on Sidr response http://www.habitat.org/ap/special_report_2009.aspx

Habitat Homeowner Story

2009-04-30T10:50:00.007+06:00

Murshida Khatun is a tailor trainer from Dholadia Village, Mymensingh. Training 5-6 students per day, Murshida is generating much needed income for her small family. Beaming with joy, she exclaims “Receiving a Habitat house has been the most significant change in my life.” Why? Because now, Murshida and her family live in a 2-bedroom brick home where she has the space to train other young women in tailoring, so, they too can contribute to their families’ income.

Prior to receiving a Habitat house, Murshida, her husband Abdur Rob, and her eight-year-old son, lived in an unsafe, dilapidated house. The mud floor was in very poor condition, and the CI sheet walls and floors did not provide adequate protection for the family. After hearing about Habitat from neighbours, Murshida decided to join a Save and Build group and began saving for a new house.

The new house has not only contributed to increasing the family’s income, the overall health of the family has improved. Murshida’s son in particular has been free of colds and fevers since moving into their new Habitat home. In addition, Murshida’s son has been granted a scholarship for his education due to the increase in his grades and attendance.

Habitat Bangladesh has helped change the life of this Bangladeshi family. Health, education and increases in income, are just a few of the lifelong changes that have been made since receiving not just a house, but a home from Habitat.

You too can help change the life of a Bangladeshi family, by assisting Habitat in building adequate homes in low income communities, to bring hope and new beginnings for families in Bangladesh.

Please contact our Resource Development Manager for more information about making a donation to Habitat Bangladesh.

After the Cyclone: New Hope in Bangladesh

2009-04-28T12:34:00.004+06:00

Habitat for Humanity Asia Pacific has published a Special Report on the Cyclone Sidr Rehabilitation Project.

Cyclone Sidr brought misery to struggling families in Bangladesh, one of the poorest countries of the world, when it stuck in November 2007.

To find out how Habitat for Humanity transformed lives through its transitional shelter strategy, please click here to read 'After the Cyclone: New Hope in Bangladesh'

More Photos from Women Build!

2009-04-26T11:30:00.005+06:00

Laura Davis and Freyr Patterson breaking bricks to make brick chips for construction

Habitat homeowner, Rashida Begum working alongside volunteers in Savar

National Director, Kelly Koch 'watering' the outside wall of the house

45 participants volunteered for the Women Build held on Friday 3 April

US Embassy builds at Kaliganj

2009-04-26T10:30:00.003+06:00

On the 9th of April, a team of 7 from the US Embassy in Dhaka departed for worksites in Kaliganj, approximately 40 km northeast of Dhaka city. The group was cordially welcomed by the homeowner and the local community, and began work at the sites under the close supervision of construction Coordinator, Md. Enamul Haque.

At the conclusion of the build the homeowner, Mr. Bijoy Rozario said, “I’m very happy to get a loan from Habitat; I am building a one room house now, but in the future I’ll need a bigger house. I’m really happy that the volunteers are building my house and they are all from the US embassy; it’s nice to work with them and I am honoured to have them here.”

The team that came from US Embassy worked on the house of Mr. Bijoy Rozario in Boali village, Kaliganj, Gazipur district. After lunch, the team managed to work for another hour, however, due to heavy rain, the team had to finish work early.

The US Embassy has long been a supporter of Habitat Bangladesh, providing both volunteers and raising funds for people in need of decent, safe and secure housing. If you or your organisation would like to volunteer or donate to Habitat Bangladesh, please contact our "Resource Development Manager

Habitat Bangladesh hosts its first Women Build!

2009-04-26T09:44:00.010+06:00

Habitat for Humanity International – Bangladesh (HFHI-B) held its first ever Women Build on Friday 3 April. A total of 45 foreign and Bengali women turned out for the event in Savar, located one hour northwest of the capital, Dhaka.

The theme of the day was ‘Celebrating Women’s Engagement in Development’, and that we did! The day commenced with National Director, Kelly Koch welcoming the volunteers and providing some insights into the role of women and challenges they face in Bangladesh. Speaking of Habitat’s work, Ms. Koch discussed how the organization “seeks to empower women through home ownership, family decision making, and education and training.”

The female volunteers worked on four different houses that were at various stages of construction. Building activities included digging, pounding and levelling the floor, carrying sand and water, sifting sand, and making brick chips.

After a very productive morning, the four teams came together for a lunch break in a shady area of South Rajashon village. The volunteers were excited to spend a day out of the hustle and bustle of Dhaka and work at Habitat build sites, while meeting homeowners and the community. “Volunteering with Habitat means so much more than just giving money to an organisation”, said Stephanie Ryan, an Australian woman currently residing in Dhaka.

After lunch, it was time for some more building, and despite the heat, the women worked hard to complete their building activities for the day. One male member of the community was in disbelief that the women had actually volunteered to spend the day in his village building. Local women in the community were motivated and inspired by the female volunteers. “Seeing so many foreign women in my village, helping my family and I to build our house, inspires me to also help others,” said Habitat homeowner, Amina Begum.

Habitat Bangladesh would like to thank all 45 women who volunteered and helped make the day successful. Much needed funds were raised for HFHI-B, but more importantly, we celebrated women’s engagement in development, and have given hope to the many women who continue to be disadvantaged as gender inequality is widespread in Bangladesh. We hope to host another Women Build event later in the year.

- Monica Gray

Habitat Bangladesh Women Build!

2009-03-19T14:31:00.021+06:00

Habitat Bangladesh is holding a Women Build on Friday 3 April.

All women over the age of 16 are most welcome!

No construction experience necessary!

Please contact Monica for registration and more details

Global Village Team, 'Shanti-Shanti' builds in Mymensingh

2009-03-19T14:11:00.007+06:00

The 12 member team ‘Shanti-Shanti’ from Aoyamagakuin University, Japan volunteered in Mymensingh from 2 - 13 March 2009.

While in Mymensingh, the team built two houses for Khaleda Akter and Shajahan Mia both from Dholadia village in Mymensingh District. Building activities included preparing bricks for construction; carrying sand, bricks and cement; mixing mortar for cementing; laying bricks and cementing the foundation and walls; and, digging and levelling the earth at the worksite.

During their trip, the team also had the opportunity to visit two schools, Shahabuddin Pre-Cadet and Shahabuddin Primary School, and the Bangladesh University of Agriculture.

The farewell ceremony was a unique cultural exchange with both Bengali songs and dances, and Japanese songs and dances. The community were very impressed with the university students and can't wait for another team to come to Mymensingh!

To learn more about Global Village or volunteer opportunities, please contact Sanjay.

Students from Tokai University, Japan build in Durgapur!

2009-03-17T10:38:00.005+06:00

From the 22 February - 7 March, 13 students and 1 teacher from Tokai University built with Habitat in Durgapur satellite in Bangladesh.

The Satellite Coordinator and Construction Supervisor were impressed with the team's enthusiasm and dedication during the build.

The team helped in preparing bricks for construction; carrying sand, bricks and cement; mixing

mortar for cementing; laying bricks and cementing the foundation and walls; and, digging and leveling the earth

at the worksite. They completed their work eagerly while the HFHI-B team ensured that all safety measures were

being followed correctly.

On Friday the 27th of February, the team had a rest day and went site seeing around the local area. They enjoyed

the beautiful sites of the ceramic hills, the lakes at Bijoypur and visited the Meghalaya border at Ranikhong.

The team also had the opportunity to visit a local school where they donated school stationary and interacted with

the local community.

When it was time for farewells, the community in Durgapur were sad to see the team leave, but hope that more

teams will join them in the near future! Thanks must go to the Volunteer programs team and the Satellite staff in

helping to make the team's experience in Bangladesh a memorable one!

For more info on volunteer opportunities, please email Sanjay

Global Village Team from Doshisha University, Japan builds in Jessore

2009-03-16T14:43:00.010+06:00

The Japanese GV team from Doshisha University built in Jessore, Bangladesh from 25 February - 10 March 2009. The team, made up of 14 students, had a very enjoyable time in Bangladesh and made a huge impact on the local community. Not used to seeing foreigners, the community were both surprised and excited to see the team building houses!

The team also had the opportunity to visit a local orphanage and Habitat's partner NGO in the area, the Community Development Society (CDS).

Rest and relaxation time was taken care of with a trip to the Sundrabans - the world's largest mangrove forest, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.

The farewells were tearful when the team departed. Strong bonds and relationships had been made between the team and the community, and a memorable time was had by all.

Please contact Sanjay">a">y to learn more about unique volunteer experiences with Habitat.

157 Volunteers from ISD in 2009 and counting!

2009-03-16T12:10:00.008+06:00

During January and February, 157 students and teachers from the International School Dhaka (ISD) volunteered with Habitat Bangladesh at build sites in Savar and Kaliganj.

Students joined Habitat Bangladesh for one and two day builds as part of the school's community service program.

ISD has been a long-term supporter of Habitat and we are very thankful for their dedication and enthusiasm!

For more information on how your school or community youth group can help build homes and change lives in Bangladesh, click here

Korean team from Ewha Women's University visits Bangladesh!

2009-03-16T11:49:00.007+06:00

In January 2009, 15 students and 2 teachers from Ewha Women’s University in Korea visited Bangladesh to build with Habitat. The team was here for 10 days in total and worked on build sites in Savar. The volunteers worked tirelessly and with enthusiasm for the whole duration of the build.

The team developed strong relationships with the homeowner

family, HFHI-B staff, and the local community. They helped in preparing

bricks for construction; carrying sand, bricks and cement; mixing mortar for

cementing;laying bricks and cementing the foundation and walls; and,

digging and leveling the earth at the worksite. They completed their work eagerly while the HFHI-B team ensured

that all safety measures were being followed correctly.

The team also had an opportunity to visit an orphanage in Savar where they

donated toys and stationary to the children.

Habitat Bangladesh wishes to thank Ewha Women's University for their

hard work and enthusiasm while in building Bangladesh!

To learn more about Volunteer opportunities or Global Village,

please contact Sanjay

Designated overseas contributions

2008-12-22T15:07:00.008+06:00

Habitat Bangladesh wishes to express a special thank-you and gratitude to all our Tithe partners and global donors. From FY 2005 - FY 2008, Habitat Bangladesh received US$191,500 as Designated Tithe Donations from different US Habitat affiliates. As Tithe contributions we received US$69,723 in FY 2007/2008 alone.

Habitat Bangladesh received another US$6,185 in donations globally from individual donors and companies from December 2007 to June 2008.

Designated donations and individual contributions have exponentially increased during FY 2008. While Macomb County, Orange County and Gwinnett County remain HFHI-Bangladesh’s largest donors, HFH Victoria made a significant effort to encourage the students of Trinity school, aged from 3 - 14 years, to raise funds for HFHI Bangladesh. Though the contributions were small, the efforts were huge and we were certainly inspired seeing the compassion of these young children.

Sincere thanks to our Tithe partners for their sustained support of Habitat Bangladesh:

Camden HFH, Metropolitan, NJ

Danville, IL
Greater Cleveland HFH OH
Gwinnett County HFH, GA
Jackson County Area HFH, WI
Kent County, MI
Macomb County HFH, MI
Monadnock HFH, NH
Orange County Inc, HFH, CA
Portage County, OH
Rochester Area HFH, MN
University of Wisconsin Whitewater HFH CC, WI
Victoria HFH, TX
Warren County HFH, VA

In country fundraising

Habitat Bangladesh also wishes to acknowledge all our local donors, Global Village and local volunteers for their tireless effort in supporting Habitat's house building activities for low income people.

From July-September 2008, the local fundraising stands at US$11,900. Congratulations to all our volunteers for Building Homes and Changing Lives through Habitat Bangladesh.

Scholastica School Careers Day

2008-12-17T11:31:00.002+06:00

The Scholastica School in Dhaka invited personnel from Habitat Bangladesh to speak to their senior students at a Careers Day on 8 November 2008. Sanjay Saha, Marketing and Volunteer Programs Manager and Monica Gray, Resource Development Associate attended the day. A number of students and teachers expressed their interest in Habitat Bangladesh’s meaningful work in the community. The teachers are planning to extended opportunities for the students to complete their community service requirements through Habitat Bangladesh.

Volunteer Fair at the US Embassy Dhaka

2008-12-17T11:29:00.002+06:00

The US Embassy arranged a Volunteer Fair on 4th November at the Embassy. The Community Liaison Office (CLO) invited different NGOs to come and share their activities with the Embassy staff. It was a wonderful opportunity for different national and international NGOs to come and showcase their programs. About six to seven NGOs put up their stalls and displayed their information materials. The main objective of the fair was to inform and educate US embassy staff on the different volunteer activities available in and around Dhaka for community engagement.

Aside from the regular USAID funds, the employees, their spouses and children felt an inner call to involve themselves in different outreach programs and support the community. The Volunteer Fair provided them with a convenient platform to learn about the activities and programs of different organizations and the opportunities where their voluntary services could add value.

Over the last two years, US Embassy staff and the CLO has been instrumental in bringing volunteers and raising funds for Habitat Bangladesh. In FY 2008 the US embassy staff have taken part in 3 builds and through their initiation more than US$6,000 has been raised for Habitat Bangladesh.

Annual Fair of PTA at the International School Dhaka (ISD)

2008-12-17T11:28:00.003+06:00

Habitat for Humanity International – Bangladesh has been busy with local advocacy in Dhaka, spreading the good news of Habitat’s work.

On Friday 21 November, staff from the PR/RD department spent the day talking about Habitat and selling merchandise at the annual fair of the International School Dhaka (ISD).

ISD has long been a supporter of Habitat and have provided many volunteer teams to build at Habitat’s sites around the country.

Despite being a long, hot day, the Habitat staff were more than happy to talk about the successes and growth of the organization. As Habitat move towards increased reliance on local fundraising and volunteers, local advocacy is an important avenue to encourage growth in programs in Bangladesh.

Global Village Team from the US visits Durgapur Satellite

2008-12-17T11:00:00.010+06:00

US open team visited Durgapur, Bangladesh from 18 - 27 November 2008 helping Md. Khurshed and Md. Enamul Haque in building their dream homes. The team of 6 women showed great enthusiasm in helping the homeowners, learning about the local culture and mingling with the community. On 23 November, the team went to see the harvesting festival of the Garo tribe, had lunch with the community and enjoyed a tribal cultural show. The volunteers enjoyed traveling to the tribal village by crossing the river by boat and taking a rickshaw ride.

The homeowners appreciated the volunteers immensely. Homeowner, Md Enamul said, “The volunteers did a great job. It surprised me when I found out the volunteers took up the construction of my house wholeheartedly and tried their best to finish as much they could before they left”.

The volunteers spoke of Bangladesh being a beautiful country. They commented that the people of the community were very warm and hospitable. Team members were also impressed with the colorful culture and traditions of Bangladesh. Some of the comments the volunteers said “Brick by brick we built, we’ve helped you and you’ve helped us, you have changed our lives”; “Crossing the river, cold wet sand between my toes welcomed by new friends.”

International Volunteers Day – 5 December 2008

2008-12-17T10:40:00.017+06:00

On International Volunteers Day, Habitat for Humanity International – Bangladesh held volunteer builds for Community Youth Groups (CYGs) at three satellites across the country – Mymensingh, Jessore and Satkhira.

The Habitat Bangladesh volunteers from Mymensingh satellite lend their hands to build the home of Mohammed Abul Kalam at Kaltapara, Khamar Shingjani, Dhohakhala, Gouripur, Mymensingh on International Volunteers Day on 5 December. Nine volunteers provided unskilled labor for the homeowner.

Abul Kalam is married and lives with his parents and his son in his house. He came to know about Habitat Bangladesh from other homeowner in the same area. He was very happy that volunteers were willing to help him to build his house. Both his family and neighbors were encouraged to assist in the house construction when they came to know that the young volunteers had come on their own will. The volunteers enjoyed the work very much, and had fun despite the manual labor being a little hard in the beginning. The staff at Mymensingh gave t-shirts to the volunteers as a sign of appreciation for their time and effort.

Jessore satellite celebrated International Volunteer Day (IVD) on 5 December 2008. 7 Community Youth Group (CYG) members, social workers and the entire satellite staff participated in a build. The program started with prayer at 9 am. Jessore Satellite Coordinator, Mr. Gobinda Das spoke about the significance of International Volunteer Day (IVD). Many people live in substandard houses around the world. Habitat for Humanity International is working to eliminate poverty housing from the face of the earth. Every person has the right to live in a decent and adequate house. However, it is a big challenge for the poorest of the poor to build a house. So, Habitat for Humanity International helps to minimize the cost of the house for the owner, by hosting volunteers who provide manual labor. Mr. Das saluted the volunteers for their selfless support towards meaningful development in the community.

As a part of the manual labor provided for the homeowner, volunteers moved around 2,000 bricks for the house, mixed cement and brick chips, and excavated the house foundations. Homeowner Swapna Mondol and her neighbors were very pleased with the volunteers, as they had never expected to receive such support from Habitat Bangladesh and its volunteers.

Through the activities of IVD, the community came to know about the sacrifice and dedication of the volunteers of Habitat Bangladesh. This event promoted HFH and volunteers as change making and advocacy tools for the community.

HABITAT BANGLADESH HANDED OVER 480 CORE SHELTERS TO CYCLONE SIDR AFFECTED FAMILIES AT A SPECIAL CEREMONY

2008-12-17T10:14:00.011+06:00

One year on from the devastation of Cyclone Sidr, Habitat Bangladesh has announced that the construction of 480 transitional shelters and 480 hygienic sanitary latrines in the cyclone devastated areas of Mirzaganj and Bakerganj will be completed by January 2009. To celebrate the progress and process of rebuilding after the disaster, HFHI-B and its partners held a Shelter Handing-Over Ceremony at the Dhaka Sheraton Hotel in Dhaka on 29 November 2008.

The ceremony featured speeches from Mr. Sayed Ershad Ahmed, President, American Chamber of Commerce, Bangladesh, and, Mr. B.M.M. Mozharul Huq, Advisor, Humanitarian Response Team, Disaster Management Cluster, UNDP. The Chief Guest, and Guest of Honor respectively.

Mr. Ahmed explained to the audience, “I feel proud that Chevron Bangladesh and other individual donors from Bangladesh came forward generously and chose a trustworthy organization, such as Habitat for Humanity International, that was focused on the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Sidr affected families.”

Mr. Shah Muhammad Nasim, Deputy Secretary from the NGO Affairs Bureau, Kelly Koch, National Director of Habitat Bangladesh, Mr. MK Aaref, National Board member, Md. Abul Bashar, CSRP Project Manager, and donor partners in the project: Chevron Bangladesh, Christian Aid Ministries (CAM) and UNICEF Bangladesh, also spoke during the ceremony.

Under the Cyclone Sidr Rehabilitation Project (CSRP) of Habitat Bangladesh, 450 houses were constructed in Mirzaganj and Amragachi Union in Patuakahli District in partnership with US based charity organization Christian Aid Ministries. Another 30 shelters were constructed in Bakerganj in the District of Barisal through the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program of Habitat in partnership with its longest CSR partner Chevron Bangladesh.

Along with the above-mentioned funding, HFHI entities in the Netherlands and Great Britain supported the over all shelter project and the construction of 480 hygienic toilets and the hygiene promotion training funded by UNICEF Bangladesh.

The impact of HFHI-B’s work has been significant. Shelter recipient, Aleya Begum, described her family’s situation at the time of the cyclone: “My husband was not at home at that time. Only the children and I were at home. Floodwater swallowed everything and left nothing behind. Everything was lost; our entire house including plates, pillows, blankets, doors and even our livelihood of ducks, chickens.” Aleya was impressed with the work of HFHI-B and the volunteers that spent their time at the project. She said that she expects “a tremendous change in our lives,” in terms of her children’s education, the ability to lock and secure their house to live safely and improved hygiene standards with a concrete toilet.

“The impact of Habitat’s work has been huge to these families who otherwise would today still be left in inadequate shelter or worse yet, homeless – vulnerable to the multitude of effects resulting from inadequate housing as well as future severe weather conditions” said Kelly Koch, National Director, HFHI Bangladesh.

The ceremony was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the success of HFHI-B’s Disaster Response Program following the devastation of Sidr. In addition, the ceremony provided an opportunity for all those involved with the Project, and those who recognize the importance of Habitat’s work to come together and celebrate.

Message from the National Director of Habitat for Humanity International – Bangladesh:

2008-12-17T09:54:00.008+06:00

Seasons Greetings from Habitat Bangladesh!

The last couple of months have been busy at HFHI-B with celebrations, new initiatives and of course, building new homes! One of our recent highlights was the Core Shelter Handing Over Ceremony of the Cyclone Sidr Rehabilitation Project (CSRP). The ceremony marked the official end of the CSRP that has been operating in southern Bangladesh since January 2008. We had the opportunity to hear from three shelter beneficiaries who spoke of their emotional turmoil when the cyclone struck. Their gratitude and thanksgiving reminded us at HFHI-B how our work in providing decent, affordable and safe homes for low-income people of Bangladesh is making a real difference to people’s lives.

As we approach the Christmas season, we are given the opportunity to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ. His birth was associated with homelessness and lack of shelter as his parents did not own a decent shelter where baby Jesus could be born.

Mother Mary gave birth in a stable, wrapped Jesus and laid him in a manger. Mary's helplessness can be seen today in Bangladesh where 70% of the population lives in inadequate and substandard housing.

Let us keep those in our thoughts and prayers who will spend Christmas just like any other day without a decent home to provide them with warmth, comfort and safety.

I wish you and your families a joyful Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you for your generous support for Habitat Bangladesh and we look forward to continued partnership in 2009!

Core Shelter Handing Over Ceremony of the Cyclone Sidr Rehabilitation Project

2008-12-01T15:26:00.004+06:00

DHAKA, 29 November 2008 – Habitat for Humanity International - Bangladesh held a Core Shelter Handing Over Ceremony of the Cyclone Sidr Rehabilitation Project (CSRP) at the Dhaka Sheraton Hotel.

The ceremony marked the official handing over of 480 transitional shelters and 480 sanitary latrines for victims of Cyclone Sidr in Bakerganj and Mirzaganj in southern Bangladesh.

The Chief Guest for the ceremony was Mr Sayed Ershad Ahmed, President of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham). AmCham have long been a supporter of Habitat Bangladesh and welcomed the opportunity to play a role on this important occasion. Habitat Bangladesh used the ceremony as an opportunity to thank its donors for the duration of the project. Donors included Christian Aid Ministries, Chevron Bangladesh and UNICEF.

During his speech, Mr Ershad Ahmed said, “I feel proud that Chevron Bangladesh and other individual donors from Bangladesh came forward generously and chose a trustworthy organization, such as Habitat for Humanity International, that was focused on the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Sidr affected families.”
Chevron Bangladesh is HFHI-B’s longest running corporate donor. Mr Naser Ahmed, Director of External Affairs of Chevron, spoke proudly of the partnership between HFHI-B and Chevron. “It is great for us to have an opportunity to give back to the community through our CSR partnership with Habitat Bangladesh. As we have heard from the beneficiaries today, Cyclone Sidr caused an enormous amount of damage, and every shelter makes a difference.”

A number of other dignitaries spoke during the ceremony, including the Guest of Honor, Mr B.M.M Mozharul Huq, Advisor of the Humanitarian Response Team (HRT) of the Disaster Management Cluster of UNDP, and the chair of the Shelter Working Group. Special Guest, Mr Regis Garandeau, Consultant of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene from UNICEF, HFHI-B’s newest partner. Mr Shah Muhammad Nasim, Deputy Secretary from the NGO Affairs Bureau, Mr M.K. Aaref, HFHI-B National Board representative, Mr Arnold Eby, Bangladesh Coordinator of Christian Aid Ministries, Mr Md. Abul Bashar, Project Manager of CSRP, Ms Kelly Koch, National Director, HFHI-B, and finally, three homeowners who shared their stories among the guests.
The ceremony provided a perfect platform for HFHI-B to showcase the success of the CSRP to the business and NGO communities in Bangladesh. As Kelly Koch, National Director of HFHI-B said ““The impact of Habitat’s work has been great to these families who otherwise would today still be left in inadequate shelter or worse yet, homeless – vulnerable to the multitude of effects resulting from inadequate housing as well as future severe weather conditions.”
If the success of the CSRP is any indication, Habitat Bangladesh can expect to continue to forge fruitful partnerships into the future.

Fundraising update

2008-10-20T13:38:00.021+06:00

We at Habitat Bangladesh, express special thank-you and gratitude to all our Tithe partners and global donors. From FY 2005 - FY 2008, Habitat Bangladesh received USD191,500 as Designated Tithe Donations from different US Habitat affiliates. As Tithe contributions we received USD 69,723 in FY 2007/2008 alone.

Habitat Bangladesh received another USD 6,185 in donations globally from individual donors and companies from December 2007 to June 2008.

Designated donations and individual contributions have exponentially increased during the last fiscal year. While Macomb County, Orange County and Gwinnett County remains our largest donors, HFH Victoria made a significant effort to encourage the students of Trinity school, aged from 3 - 14 years, to raise funds for HFHI Bangladesh. Though the contributions were small, the efforts were huge and we were certainly inspired seeing the compassion of these young kids.

Sincere thanks to our Tithe partners for their sustained support of Habitat Bangladesh:

Habitat Bangladesh also acknowledges all its local donors, Global Village and local volunteers for their tireless effort in supporting Habitat's house building activities for the low income people.

During the 1st quarter of current fiscal year or July-September 2008 the local fundraising stands at USD 11,900. Congratulations to our volunteers for Building Homes and Changing Lives through Habitat Bangladesh.

Story of the month

2008-10-20T13:35:00.007+06:00

"We haven't seen any foreigners before. They have come from afar helping us re-build our shelters that were destroyed during Cyclone Sidr. Our children are very happy seeing and being with them (the foreigner volunteers). It is a wonderful experience seeing their passion for poor people" says 40 year old Ismail Gazi of Mirzaganj village.

Like many in the area, Ismail Gazi engages in catching fish, rickshaw-pulling and basic plumbing, to contribute to his monthly income of Tk.4500, to support his family of seven.

Ismail Gazi 's wife Bakful Begum says, "Things got only worse (when the cyclone struck) as my husband was not at home when the wind started getting hard-hitting."

When Ismail made his way home, he saw the already flooded area suddenly swell up even more in the wake of Cyclone Sidr. He fell into a pond of water and clung onto a tree, struggling
to get to the house next door. But the surge of water was so strong that it carried him further away.

He described how he left his eldest son to his fate and told him to hang onto a tree strongly. Somehow he caught hold of his two younger sons and managed to take them to a safe place. "And the next time I returned to collect my elder one, I found him somehow hanging onto the tree. Allah just kept him alive. I still get terrified remembering that dreadful night" exclaimed Ismail Gazi.

He shudders to recollect the day he saw his house uprooted, poultry blown away, fishnets thrown and tangled and life turned into a mess.

Ismail is grateful that Habitat provided him with a silver lining on his rain cloud. He got a new home where he does not need to be worry about rain wetting him, even while inside the house. "I'm very glad to get this house," he says, "Before the cyclone; we used to stay in a broken house. My children are happy. Now they have a roof over them to shelter them with a healthy environment where they can read and write."

He further explains that it would have been nice if the structure
bore an add-on of a verandah so that they could have a nice place to sit down, chit-chat and watch the rain fall.

Ismail 's wife Bakful Begum says, "An adjacent toilet will be very helpful; my children and I do not have to go here and there to find a toilet."

Ismail Gazi desires to see the anguish of people around him melt away in the same way his life has taken such a pleasant turn. Thanks to Habitat, its donors and volunteers.

Homes Built To Date

2008-10-20T13:07:00.007+06:00

Families served:
• 1883 homes built and renovated since 2000 to September 2008;
• 402 transitional shelters constructed under the Disaster Response projects;
• 44 homes built through the Save & Build in the first quarter of FY 08 - 09.
National Repayment Rate: 81%

Volunteer Builds

2008-10-19T15:13:00.006+06:00

From 27 September – 4 October, Habitat Bangladesh hosted a Global Village team from the Shanghai American School in China. The team was the third one to come from the school in to work with Habitat Bangladesh. The team consisted of 18 people and helped construct 3 houses in Shambhugonj in Mymensingh.

The community in Mymensingh highly appreciated the attitude and work of the Shanghai American School. People were very interested to hear why the team had come to build houses in their community. They asked many questions about Habitat for Humanity International Bangladesh.

The volunteers spoke of Bangladesh being a beautiful country, and the people of the community being very warm and hospitable. They were impressed to see the colourful culture and traditions of Bangladesh. Some of the students and one of the teachers expressed their desire to visit Bangladesh again.

“I thought the work was my high point in this trip, because I got close to the homeowners and my teammates. For me, working experience was better than the community/ cultural experience” said Chan Ju On, student.

“Building a house, interaction with the Bangladeshi volunteer & children was the highlight of my trip” Hyo Min Kim, student.

“Cultural events made our trip memorable” Geoff Peake, Team Leader.

Work that the team completed included, carrying bricks, mortar, cement, sand and brick chips. Digging, pounding floors, watering bricks, curing, making brick chips, building walls, and mixing mortar.

Finally, the team was able to be involved in various cultural events over the week.

Local Volunteers Update

2008-10-19T14:58:00.016+06:00

Habitat Bangladesh is fortunate to receive tremendous support from local volunteers here in Bangladesh!

Recently, Dibarah Mahboob, a student from Scholastica School in Dhaka who has completed her O-levels commenced her duties as a long-term volunteer in the National Office. Dibarah will be assisting the Public Relations and Resource Development team in key communication, marketing and fundraising activities. A warm welcome to Dibarah and a big thank-you for volunteering at Habitat!

Last weekend, 35 students from the American International School - Dhaka traveled to Savar to assist in the construction of three houses. The students were warmly welcomed by the community, who were impressed with their dedication and stamina! Thank-you to the American International School, who have been a long-time supporter of Habitat Bangladesh.

Finally, the Leo Club of Dhaka went on their first build on 17 October! The Leo Club are one of Habitat Bangladesh’s newest supporters and we welcome them to the Habitat family!

Welcome to AYAD volunteer Monica Gray!

2008-10-19T14:45:00.004+06:00

Monica Gray, you will be seeing her sitting quietly on her computer busy either in writing or researching onto something. She has a strong commitment to fulfil any tasks given to her. Monica is the newest volunteer from the Australian Youth Ambassador for Development or AYAD program and is working at the Public Relations and Resource Development Department (PR & RD) at the National Office as a Resource Development Associate.

Monica comes with a wide experience in the NGO and public sector. She has been in
India working with Gram Vikas, a non-government organisation in the state of Orissa, where she worked among the Dalit (untouchables) communities.

She has great passion for politics, policy development and international development. We believe she will be able to make a significant contribution to the mission and ministry of HFHIB.

Please join us in welcoming Monica to Habitat Bangladesh. Monica, wish you a happy and memorable stay in Bangladesh.

Nehemiah Award

2008-10-19T10:55:00.013+06:00

HFH Nehemiah Award Winner 2008 for distinguished volunteer service
Mr. Curtis Hendricks
HFH Advisor, American International School/Dhaka

Congratulations Mr. Curtis Hendricks.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Mr. Curtis Hendricks, who spent the last four years spreading the word of HFHI Bangladesh. He has brought Habitat's name to the forefront.

Mr. Curtis's enthusiasm for the ministry of Habitat is exemplary. In the 2007-2008 school year, he has organized, coordinated and supervised over 50 students on Habitat builds. Over the course of the year, he initiated fund-raising campaigns that successfully exceeded targets and raised over USD $ 7,890 for HFHI Bangladesh.

This was the largest amount ever received from a youth program in Bangladesh ad represented 10% of the funds HFHI Bangladesh raised locally in fiscal year 2008. The fund were significant in jumpstarting the preparation and groundwork for the second phase of the Cyclone Sidr Rehabilitation Project (CSRP) in Patuakhali, where Habitat is engaged in constructing 480 transitional shelters for the cyclone affected people.

To donate to the CSRP sanitation project for providing families with a hygienic toilet write to the Resource Development Manager Click here!

Global Village Team in Bangladesh!

2008-09-30T15:05:00.002+06:00

Habitat Bangladesh is hosting its first GV team for the 2008/9 building year!

16 students and 2 teachers from the Shanghai American School are currently building homes for a small community in Bangladesh, from 27 September to 5 October. The team comes to Bangladesh as part of the Global Village program. They are working in Mymensingh to build three homes in Roghurampur village, under Shombhuganj police station. The team will have the opportunity to enjoy the EID festivities in the town, visit the Garo tribal community for a unique cross-cultural experience, visit a local school and a museum.

The Shanghai American School sends many teams to developing countries as part of the Global Village program of HFHI to build homes for the people in need. Habitat Bangladesh is one of the few programs that has continuously received teams from the school over the last few years.

Photos from the team's experiences will be posted soon!

If you are interested in volunteering at Habitat Bangladesh, please contact Sanjay, our Volunteer Programs Manager at sanjay@habitatbangladesh.org

International Day of Prayer 2008

2008-09-30T14:30:00.039+06:00

Habitat for Humanity International –Bangladesh (HFHIB) organized a prayer meeting for Christian pastors at the YWCA Conference Hall, Dhaka on 17th September 2008. Thirty-seven pastors and leaders from different Christian denominations and organizations gathered for the prayer.

As Master of Ceremonies, the Volunteer Programs Manager, Mr. Prince Sanjay Saha welcomed all of the participants. The work of HFHIB was then presented to the audience by the Public Relations and Resource Development Manager, Emelda Mullick.

In her presentation on Habitat Bangladesh, she highlighted how HFHIB is working in Bangladesh in its regular ‘Save and Build’ Program, Disaster Response Program, Volunteer Programs and Church Relations Program. She also explained about the plans of Habitat Bangladesh for the 2009 fiscal year.

The National Director, Ms. Kelly Koch welcomed everyone in the room. She especially thanked everyone for choosing to spend their time with Habitat Bangladesh, to pray for people living in substandard housing in Bangladesh. She explained HFHIB’s mission as an Ecumenical housing ministry and the partnership and role that churches can play in the organization.

Rev. Sourave Folia from the Church of Bangladesh conducted the prayer and Pastor Robinson Mondol from the Seventh Day Adventist Church of Bangladesh delivered the sermon. He spoke about the parable of Zacchaeus from the gospel of Luke. As Jesus went and mingled with people from all walks of life, so can the leaders of Christian communities of Bangladesh go out of their circle to reach the poor and show the love of Christ through their work. Rev. Mondol encouraged everyone to come forward and take a step to help the poor.

After the sermon, the Chairman of the Board for Habitat Bangladesh, Mr. Peter Halder thanked everyone for considering HFHIB’s request to attend the prayer and also for their time with Habitat Bangladesh.

The prayer meeting finished with a prayer for people who continue to live in substandard housing and the desire that Habitat Bangladesh will be able to help these people.

Congregations in over 280 churches prayed for homeless people and HFHI at the International Day of Prayer on September 21, 2008. The National Council of Churches in Bangladesh (NCCB) delivered the prayer call of HFHI to its member churches. The Seventh Day Adventists (SDA), The Church of Bangladesh and Bangladesh Baptist Fellowship (BBF) centrally circulated the message of prayer at the HFHI’s International Day of Prayer to all its member churches. Mr. Subodh Adhikary (General Secretary of the NCCB, Rev. Sourov Folia (Pastorate Superintendent and Principal of St. Andrews Theological College) and Rev. Leor P. Sarkar (General Secretary of BBF), Pastor Dulal Mitra (Dhaka district Pastor of SDA) lead to deliver the message and prayer call to their respective churches. All of these denominations have over 100 houses of worship and churches in the country.

Farewell to Pierre Johannessen

2008-09-17T12:52:00.005+06:00

Pierre Soheil Johannessen walks into the conference room of Habitat Bangladesh dressed in a Big Bangs t-shirt - the community-based basketball charity that two Frenchmen, a Bangladeshi and himself founded. He is here to discuss the last 12 months he as spent in Dhaka, Bangladesh as an Australian Youth Ambassador for Development (AYAD) working in the National Office of Habitat for Humanity International Bangladesh (HFHIB).

Pierre had no preconceived ideas on Bangladesh before arriving in September 2007. He reflects that he was "not in the mind-frame" for coming to Bangladesh, and, frankly, does not look in the mind-frame to be leaving. the work completed, the experiences had, and most importantly, the relationships made, are hard to leave behind.

Arriving in the country two months before Cyclone Sidr struck southern Bangladesh, Pierre also witnessed HFHIB commencing its first Disaster Response project in Bhuapur Tagail which built 122 transitional shelters for families who lost their homes in the September 2007 floods.

Thousands of families lost their homes in the destruction of Cyclone Sidr in southern Bangladesh, and Pierre was thrown into the deep end and was fortunate enough to join the disaster assessment team in Patuakhali. The trip brought about a swell of emotions for the young Australian. The vast destruction and desperation in the faces of people play over in his head as a constant reminder that his work as a Resource Development Associate at Habitat "concerns families, not just dollars and cents." He comments that he is impressed at what Habitat has done and continues to do in Patuakhali. "We have not abandoned the community. We are still there. We are rebuilding the houses." While mentioning his experience on the assessment trip Pierre said, "I took lots of photos and one of the

most appealing photos that I have taken is the photo that is featured in the Habitat Bangladesh 2008 calendar. This image will remain in my heart for years to come."

Pierre has had a significant impact on the Resource Development and Public Relations Department of HFHIB. Introducing accountability, new internal and external communication methods, policies and procedures, improved efficiency, and marketing techniques, were just a few outcomes achieved by Pierre.

Where Pierre differs from other AYADs, work is only one facet that makes up his experience in Bangladesh. Basketball, a lifetime passion, could not be put aside while in Bangladesh. From coaching school teams, to meeting other 'ballers', Pierre began to spend most of his time after office hours on a basketball court somewhere in Dhaka. It was on one of these courts that the Big Bangs was born. An organization that has run tournaments, entered and sponsored competitions, organized skills training workshops, run basketball camps at orphanages in and around Dhaka, and, handed out food packages and played ball with street kids in Old Dhaka.

Pierre has enjoyed his time in Bangladesh, contributing significantly to Habitat Bangladesh, playing basketball and eating Shingaras (a typical Bangladeshi snack). He came with no conceived ideas on Bangladesh and leaves with what he calls a "priceless experience". Pierre articulates his experience at HFHIB as "awesome", his favorite word. Travelling from Dhaka to Tangail, to Mirzaganj to Savar, Pierre has met with and interviewed families, taken pictures, and written stories and articles about Habitat. He emphasises that these were the most enjoyable parts of his assignment.

Despite Pierre commenting that he has experienced more personal development rather than career development, his contribution has had a positive effect on HFHIB and has encouraged the organization to raise its profile in Bangladesh and increase its confidence in engaging future international volunteers to its programs.

Pierre's final words to future volunteers - "be part of the community". A statement that certainly rings true for this Australian.

Thanks a million to Pierre!

2008-09-17T12:43:00.006+06:00

With his talent, dedication and hard work Pierre assisted PR & RD team to stay on track and meet its goal. His willingness and creativity is much appreciated.

Pierre Soheil Johannessen was the first Australian Youth Ambassador for Development (AYAD) for HFHIB. We were blessed to have such an extraordinary talent in our team. Pierre left Bangladesh on 18th September 2008. We miss him and wish him all the best. Good luck Pierre!

Soheil and his new home

2008-08-21T15:19:00.000+06:00

It’s been some time since I last saw little Soheil, basket in hand, carrying sand from the pile to the building site. At only 6, Soheil seemed to take the task of building his new home very seriously, offering only the rarest of smiles when one of my antics finally amused him.

In the 4 months since, Soheil and his family’s home has been completed. It’s a simple home, 2 rooms squeezed in between 2 other homes in, Degaon, a small village, some 30kms from the Bangladesh capital Dhaka.Even in such a small village, there is little space to move; in a country of 140 million, your home may be the only privacy you can have; in a country of such extreme poverty, your home may be your only real possession.

Soheil is excited to show me his new home. He still has the same serious face, but is obviously proud of his surroundings. He jumps up and down on the family bed, he points out the fan and the walls, the new windows and the cement floors.

To a western eye, the house is hardly the ideal new home; the bricks are uncovered to the outside elements, mortar seems brittle compared to what we are used to, and the moss growing along one side of the wall belies the home’s real age.

Yet it’s a far cry from the tin shack his family had been living in before. Soheil’s father, Mohammad, says before the partnership with Habitat, they had no choice but to live the way there were, himself, his wife, his son and 1 year old daughter, and his mother in a shack barely half the size of 1 room of their new home; “I needed a better environment for my children”.

While striving to provide families with new dwellings, the extent of poverty in Bangladesh equates to using the bare minimum of consumables. Painting one’s house is a luxury few can contemplate, let alone afford. Despite these obstacles, Habitat Bangladesh still adheres to a strict code of quality; though cosmetically the home is vastly different to traditional homes in the west, it is a safe, durable, affordable place of peace.

The family had heard of Habitat’s work through others in the village, and approached Habitat staff to see if he could apply for the program. A cook by trade, Mohammad knew his family could no longer afford to live in such a poor environment. I ask him if as a Muslim family they felt any apprehension about working with a Christian organization. He smiles and replies confidently that he had no concerns at all, citing the Hindu and Buddhist families Habitat has worked with in this very village. Indeed, the construction of the home itself showed how much families from different faiths and backgrounds were happy and eager to join together to help build each others homes.

Habitat’s use of international volunteers also surprised Mohammed and his family. “I never imagined this (foreign volunteers helping) could happen!” says Mohammed. His mother was particularly impressed with the female volunteers from the International School Dhaka who gave a week of their time to help build the home; “I felt very happy when I saw the girls working.”

Soheil can’t stop posing for pictures. He is smiling a lot more now, eager to show off every brick of his new home. Compared to what he used to live in, this home is a veritable palace, safe from the elements, clean, above the water level, and most of all, full of space.

As I prepare to leave the family, Mohammed shakes my hand eagerly, warmly. Being here it’s easy to see how much a home means to a family. “I never expected anything like this”, says Mohammed, saying goodbye with his daughter Shamin held in his arms, as Soheil, now beaming, head held high, waving as I walk away, promising to return.

- Story and Pictures, Pierre Johannessen

Homeowner Story: Alim Uddin

2008-08-14T12:55:00.000+06:00

Homeowner Story: Alim Uddin, Modhupur.

Alim Uddin is 27 years old, married and has a 3 year old daughter. He is a homeowner from the Modhupur area.

In an interview Alim said he grew up with his 3 younger brothers, and his mother, they lived in the Pirozpur district in very poor conditions. It was difficult for Alim to earn money for the family, as he left school in grade 8. Alim decided to leave home and move to the Dokhala area, near Modhupur, in search for work.

Not long after arriving in Dokhala, he met with his uncle, Harun. After some discussion, his uncle offered to teach him the trade of tailoring, and motivated Alim to commence working with him. Alim excelled in tailoring and worked for 7 years with his uncle.

Alim then moved to the Pachis Mile area to start a tailoring business with his small amount of savings. In the beginning, he was traveling daily to his business from his home in Pirojpur.

This was a difficult way to for him to run the business, but at this time, he had no other option. Soon after, he married a woman from Modhupur.

A few years passed, and Alim decided to buy a piece of land closer to his business where he could build a house. Alim shared the idea to his mother in law, who in turn gave 5 decimal of land to her daughter and Alim.

The next step Alim faced was building a home on the land. While thinking about how he could afford building materials, Alim. heard of HFHI-Bangladesh who offer support by providing loans to homeowners. On hearing this, Alim went to the HFHI-Bangladesh office.

With the support of HFHI-Bangladesh, Alim built a two room house, costing BDT65,000. He never could have imagined that this would happen He stated to the Habitat staff - “How this beautiful house build with this low cost.”

Alim is now in full swing with his business and has enough time to earn money for his family. Currently, he has two staff members working for him. His wife is also helping him with tailoring. Alim’s total net income is currently BDT 7,000-8.000 per month.

Alim wishes to get another loan from HFHI-Bangladesh for an extension and a toilet. He is very grateful to HFHI-Bangladesh and the staff who helped him build his house.

You can help families like Alim's own their own home - Contact our Resource Development team to DONATE or VOLUNTEER now!

Give A Lifetime Gift

2008-07-30T13:00:00.003+06:00

Give a Lifetime Gift - Partner with Habitat Bangladesh.

As appeared in American Chamber Of Commerce Magazine Bangladesh.

Click picture for larger version.

Height Of Innovation

2008-07-30T12:55:00.001+06:00

Check out the latest in "Habitat World" on Habitat Bangladesh's work with alternative housing solutions.

Click on the picture for larger version.

Volunteer with Habitat Bangladesh - a message from HFHIB National Director

2008-07-27T10:03:00.003+06:00

Greetings from Habitat Bangladesh!

Thank you for taking the opportunity to read through the Habitat Bangladesh volunteers newsletter; volunteers are the lifeblood of our program, allowing us to continue to provide safe, decent, affordable housing to over 1,700 families since 1999. To put that into perspective, since volunteers became a standard part of our operating procedure, Habitat Bangladesh has lifted its capacity to build homes from 14 in the 2000 financial year to over 600 in 2008. That’s a remarkable achievement, which is now reflected in our target of over 700 homes in 2009 alone!

This past year we have been fortunate to welcome 10 Global Village Teams, and host a further 7 Local Volunteer Teams at builds around the country. In addition, our partnership with Christian Aid Ministries for our Cyclone Rehabilitation Project sees us welcoming new groups of volunteers every 2 weeks.

Our Volunteer manager, Prince Sanjay Saha, and his team ensure the safety and comfort of every member of every team; read through some of the testimonials, and you can easily see how we constantly achieve outstanding hosting reports.

From working in villages with the poorest of the poor, playing and sharing with local children, to touring this amazing country, Habitat Bangladesh can offer you a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Our volunteers are not just short term. Currently we have Pierre Johannessen, an Australian Youth Ambassador for Development, working with us in the National Office, completing the 10th month of his year-long commitment to Habitat Bangladesh, while also welcoming a new AYAD, Monica Gray. Pierre has been working with Habitat Bangladesh since September 2007, engaged in all aspects of our work, from Cyclone Assessment and Rehabilitation, to Monitoring and Evaluation, to communications and policy and procedure.

There are many opportunities to be involved with Habitat Bangladesh, it’s as easy as contacting us!

Our internship program is also developing quite quickly. Anna Allen from Singapore joined the team for 3 weeks in June, and currently Maggie DeCosse and Charlene Lee are working with the Resource Development and Public Relations team until August.

I sincerely hope you take advantage of the opportunity to volunteer for Habitat Bangladesh. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Kelly Koch
National Director
Habitat for Humanity International, Bangladesh

Join a Global Village Team to build in Bangladesh!

2008-07-24T11:39:00.006+06:00

Hi ! my name is Sanjay, and I am the Volunteer Programs Manager of Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh. I have experience of hosting volunteers for the last 5 years. Bangladesh is an amazing country, people are very kind and they love to host.

We need your support to eliminate homelessness from this developing country.

I salute your dedication and commitment of giving a hand to the people in need. Community and culture in Bangladesh is different from the other world. I believe you will have a life changing experience here.

You are always welcome to Bangladesh to make a difference!

Prince Sanjay Saha
Manager, Marketing & Volunteer Programs

For information on Global Village Teams, click here.

To contact the Volunteer Programs Manager, click here.

To see how you can get involved in Bangladesh, click here.

Habitat for Humanity Program Milestones 2007

2008-07-24T11:33:00.002+06:00

Report just released on the Program Milestones of 2007.

Available for download here.

News from Habitat Asia Pacific - July 8

2008-07-16T14:27:00.002+06:00

Habitat For Humanity CEO Visits Cyclone Response Project, Speaks At South Asia Leadership Conference In Bangladesh At Start Of Six-Country Asia Tour.

Click Here for story.

Delta Brac Housing and Habitat Bangladesh form Partnership

2008-07-09T15:34:00.004+06:00

On April 17th, Delta Brac Housing and Habitat Bangladesh declared a partnership agreement to support Habitat's house building activities for low-income people.

In FY08, DBH has sponsored 3 homes as part of Habitat's Save and Build Program.

Mr Q.A Shariful Ala, Managing Director, and Mr Dominic D Cruze, Communications and Customer Service Manager, visited Habitat's offices to personally make the donation to Habitat's National Director.

From the signed Memorandum of Acceptance:

“DBH seeks to strengthen the society of the country by continually expanding
home ownership and participate in various events where the low income community
in general will be benefited and own a low cost decent home.”

The Save and Build Program is the core activity of Habitat Bangladesh, helping those most at need develop savings habits, purchase materials for their homes, and help build both their and their communities' homes, all under the supervision and assistance of Habitat Bangladesh.

For Corporate CSR Opportunities, please contact our Resource Development Manager.

New Habitat Bangladesh Polo Shirts

2008-07-09T15:25:00.000+06:00

Our own wonderful Sanjay Saha, Volunteer Programs Manager, and Rocky Roy, Volunteer Programs Coordinator, model our latest Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh Polo Shirts.

Available in White and Blue, these shirts are 100% Cotton, Made In Bangladesh, and sport our Logo and Tagline: Building Homes, Changing Lives...

The shirts are available in all sizes, small to XL, and can be yours for only 200 taka each!

Contact our Public Relations and Resource Development team to order yours today!

Community Youth Group created in Mymenshing!

2008-07-09T14:59:00.003+06:00

A committee of the new CYG (Community Youth Group) has successfully been formed at Mymenshing satellite on the 6th July 2008. The youth group had been supporting the Mymensingh satellite for the past two years.

27 students from various universities attended the gathering with local Habitat staff.

Rocky Roy, Volunteer Co-ordinator and Prince Sanjay, Volunteer Programs Manager met the youth group at this occasion; they were delighted at the enthusiasm and passion of the group, and wish them well in their partnership with Habitat Bangladesh.

Want to be a Habitat Volunteer? Click here!

Families Served As Of June 2008

2008-07-09T14:50:00.001+06:00

HFHI-B Bangladesh completed building 642 houses in FY 2008 which included 370 houses under regular S & B program and 272 under DR projects
As of June 2008 HFHI-B served a total of 1,706 families in Bangladesh
Nation wide 141 houses completed in June 08
Repayment rate increased to 81%

Message from newly appointed National Director of Habitat Bangladesh

2008-07-08T16:55:00.001+06:00

This has been a challenging year for Habitat Bangladesh; perennial floods and a horrific cyclone have kept all in the Development sector scrambling to fulfill the needs of one of the world’s poorest countries.

Yet through the challenges, Habitat Bangladesh has shown time and again that it can meet, and more importantly, rise above the difficulties modern development presents.

This year, Habitat Bangladesh built 122 homes in Bhuapur Tangail, as part of our Flood Rehabilitation Project.

We are currently building Transitional Shelters in Patuakhali, as part of our Cyclone Rehabilitation Project.

In this current financial year, we have built 372 homes as part of our Save and Build program, a significant achievement considering the impact of Cyclone Sidr not only on financial resources, but personnel as well. In all, Habitat Bangladesh has built a grand total of 642 homes this year, bringing the total number of families served in Bangladesh up to 1,706 since 1999.

I am therefore delighted to be taking over an organization that shows so much resilience and dedication in their work, especially one so committed to the values and ethics of the Habitat for Humanity family.

Together with donors, volunteers, our Advisory Board and our wonderful staff and partner families, I am looking forward to the continued growth and success of Habitat for Humanity International Bangladesh.

My best wishes to you all,

Kelly Koch
National Director,
Habitat for Humanity International Bangladesh

Jonathan Reckford visit to Mirzaganj

2008-07-02T12:14:00.000+06:00

Habitat CEO Jonathan Reckford spends six hours at the Cyclone SIDR Rehabilitation Project in Bangladesh

2008-07-02T11:47:00.000+06:00

“I hope you are experiencing the gift of blessing for what you are doing. No day is a perfect day. Indeed it’s not the end. I’ll tell the story of what you are doing. Thank you and God bless you!”…These were the words of Jonathan Reckford when he met the volunteers and staff of Habitat Bangladesh at the Cyclone SIDR Rehabilitation project.

On 22nd of June Habitat for Humanity International CEO Jonathan Reckford dedicated the first core shelter of the project. Jonathan Reckford visited the Cyclone SIDR Rehabilitation project in Mirjaganj, Patuakhali as part of his South Asian Tour and officially dedicated the first core shelter. Arnold Eby the Project Coordinator of the funding partner Christian Aid Ministries (CAM) joined Jonathan Reckford and the homeowner in cutting the ribbon.

The visitors witnessed the joy of tears in the eyes of homeowner Abdul Bari and his wife Samsun Nahar as Jonathan Reckford took time in listening the couple their memories of the dread night when SIDR stroked. They described the trembling story how they fled home with their 15 days old new born grand daughter amidst the destruction of SIDR.

Samsun Hahar elaborated, “The wind was very strong. Our house was destroyed and we went next door with the baby. Soon the water level started to rise and we decided to evacuate. It was raining heavily; there was water everywhere. We thought it was the end. I tied the baby on my shoulder and we all swam together to the nearest building.”

In response Jonathan Reckford said, “I express my sorrow to hear you. I want to congratulate you in your new home. We are glad to have the opportunity to serve you. We pray that your family may live happily and prosper in future and may you live as the good citizens of this community.”

During the visit Jonathan Reckford visited the production site, the mobile HRC, the residence of CAM volunteers and also the HRC guest house. He was accompanied by Richard Hathaway, Area Vice President of HFH Asia Pacific; Kyle Scott, Regional Program Manager of HFH South Asia; Scott Peterson, Disaster Response Coordinator of HFH Asia Pacific and Kelly Koch, National Director of HFH Bangladesh.

Abul Bashar, Project Manager of Cyclone Sidr Rehabilitation Project explained the construction process and the day to the activities of the project to the visiting guests. All the construction materials are prefabricated and later being transported to the construction sites by boat and then being carried by the volunteers and the homeowners to the building site.

A brief overview of the project was presented by Project Manager Abul Bashar at the mobile HRC. He mentioned that though monsoon started 20 shelters are still being constructed every week and a total of 136 core shelters have been erected so far. He expressed optimism that the project will be completed within due time.

While briefing the visitors Arnold Eby, Bangladesh based Project Coordinator of CAM said every two weeks over fifteen volunteers are flying to Bangladesh to put up the shelters. He said, “Donations are coming in from 5 to 100 to 200 Dollars from individuals. We have a partnership with Air Emirates. A fixed price will be offered all time for fare till the project will be going on.”

Arnold shared how they evaluate the beneficiaries that they are eligible to get the shelters. He said, “The volunteers are doing very good here. We can still find people living in their makeshift shelters. We look for real people who deserve to have a free shelter.”

In response Johatahan Reckford thanked all the volunteers and Habitat staff. He said, “I want to thank all of you, the CAM volunteers and our staff. The impact; the lives that you are changing, it sends a signal to the grater community that it’s not the end.”
After a day long tour the team came back to Dhaka with a filling of fulfillment and enthusiasm of helping more people in the area especially with a sanitation project that is currently being negotiated with Unicef Bangladesh.

Cyclone Sidr Rehabilitation Project - Mirzaganj

2008-07-02T11:46:00.001+06:00

In November 2007, Cyclone Sidr struck Bangladesh, the worse storm since 1991. Thousands were killed, but evacuation and preparedness plans prevented worse damage and destruction.

HFH Bangladesh is the implementing partner in a project to assist and construct 280 transitional shelters for affected families in Mirjaganj and Barisal, as well as providing disaster mitigation training to the families and community.

The project is jointly funded by Christine Aid Ministries (CAM), HFH Netherlands, Chevron Bangladesh and many other individual donors of HFHI Bangladesh.

The project started in March 2008 and will be completed in September. As of June 2008, 154 shelters have been completed.

Each core house is about 6 meters by 4 meters in size.

A Mobile Habitat Resource Center and a production center at Shubidkahli Union at Mirjagong Upazilla in Patuakhali District is the core of the program. Building is being implemented through work teams, staff and CAM volunteers. Families are being assisted also to reuse old housing materials.

A fundraising campaign is in progress with Unicef Bangladesh, HFH UK and CAM for water and sanitation support to existing beneficiaries; disaster mitigation and other trainings. Future plans would include building more homes if funding is available and following up to introduce regular programs (Save and Build) and provide permanent structures to the rebuilt shelters.

CAM volunteers, approximately 15 people in a team are coming in every two weeks and heading towards Mirjaganj to help erect the core shelters. The volunteers are accepted by the local community and a positive impact is created. Aside from putting up the core shelters the volunteers take time to engage themselves with the local community especially with children and the sick during their free time.

On June 22 Habitat for Humanity International CEO Jonathan Reckford visited the project in Mirjaganj as part of his South Asian Tour and officially dedicated the first house along with the CAM Project Coordinator Arnold Eby.

The visitors witnessed the joy of tears in the eyes of homeowner Abdul Bari and his wife Samsun Nahar. Jonathan Reckford took time in listening the couple their memory of the night when SIDR struck. They described the trembling story how they fled home with their new born grand daughter in the destruction of SIDR.

TO DONATE TO THE SIDR PROJECT, CLICK HERE.

A Dream Come True!

2008-07-02T11:38:00.002+06:00

On 25 June 2008 Habitat homeowner Shanara Begum celebrated her house warming with about 200 villagers. Shanara Begum is a homeowner of Khulna HRC of HFH Bangladesh and the proud homeowner of the 650th home of Satkhira Partnership project.

The homeowner Ms. Shanara Begum with her husband and three children thanked Habitat and her neighbors in tears of joy. She expressed her gratefulness in front of over two hundred villagers, local NGO, and community leaders who came to join the dedication ceremony. She said, “Save and Build program of Habitat for Humanity is an excellent opportunity to build a dream home for the people like me in the community. I hope my neighbors will also be able to fulfill their dreams soon.”

Shanara’s husband Mohammed Abu-Saidur Rahman is a farmer. They do not have cultivable land of their own but Rahman works as a day labor to others paddy field. The family of five has owned a 240 square feet home after Shanara became the member of Habitat’s ‘Save and Build’ group.

The new house is a very basic two room family home with 2 doors, 4 windows and 1 veranda. However majority of the low income people of the country do not have any access for availing the needed financial resources for building this kind of core home.

Habitat for Humanity’s ‘Save and Build’ group is looked upon as a powerful source of making the dreams of low income people come true while creating unity and trust among the members and greater community.

HFH Bangladesh is working is Satkhira district in partnership with World Vision Bangladesh Satkhira ADP. As of June 2008 HFH Bangladesh has built over 1700 homes in Bangladesh through its Save and Build program in 9 satellites and 2 partnership programs and in two Disaster Response Projects.

To donate to Habitat, please contact our Resource Development Department.

South Asia Leadership Conference 2008

2008-06-30T11:35:00.000+06:00

Habitat's South Asia Leadership Conference 2008 Opens
“Good housing contributes to efficiency, enthusiasm and energy”

Dhaka, 19 June 2008 - The necessity of decent housing for the urban poor was the main focus at the opening of the South Asia Leadership Conference 2008 organized by Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI). Good housing contributes to efficiency, enthusiasm and energy was a common thread through the speeches and presentations.

This sets the stage for the rest of the conference to be filled with lively discussion and information exchange on the conference theme of "Scaling up Urban Housing Solutions in South Asia." The three-day international conference, held in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, saw more than 100 participants from 12 countries, mainly in Asia.

During his inaugural speech, the Chief Guest for the opening of the conference, Mohammad Ali Khan, Director General of the NGO Affairs Bureau in Bangladesh underscored the need for safer and hygienic habitation for all. The other speakers included Kyle Scott, Regional Program Manager for HFHI and Rick Hathaway, Area Vice President, HFHI Asia-Pacific.

The keynote paper was presented by Prof. Dr. Nurul Islam Nazem, Dept of Geography and Environment of the University of Dhaka on ‘Trends in Urban Housing in South Asia with a Focus on Bangladesh.'

In his paper Dr. Nazem opined urbanization as an asset rather than liability. The paper says, more than 25 percent of the population of Bangladesh live in urban areas with a growth rate of 3.5 percent. Dhaka city alone has a population of 13 million and the number is growing faster. Identifying slum dwellings as the biggest constraint for urbanization in Bangladesh, Dr. Nazem said, 35.2 percent of the urban population live in slums.

Beside resource constraints, lack of political commitment and policy framework, the elite’s apathy towards the poor, the lack of institutional support, non-recognition of the poor as city dwellers and poor governance have been identified as main constraints to the delivery of urban housing solutions in Bangladesh. These factors are also faced by other Asian countries.

The speakers also underscored on environmentally sustainable urban housing. And added that to avail to the solutions, coordination and cooperation among South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) members and at global level is necessary.

The three-day conference will include several plenary and workshop sessions and a field visit to develop effective ways to scaling up urban housing solution in South Asia.

On second day of the conference Jonathon Reckford the CEO of HFH International, based in the U.S.A. will attend the Welcome Dinner of the conference. The Chief Guest for the dinner will be Professor Nazrul Islam, Chairman, University Grant Commission.

Habitat for Humanity is working in Bangladesh since 1999 and providing assistance to low income people for building low cost affordable houses.

Emelda S. Mullick
PR & Resource Development Manager

Donations

2008-05-20T10:39:00.003+06:00

This has been a busy month for donations to Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh!

David Martz, from the Dhaka Triathlon Club, handed over 16,000 taka, donated from the Charity Run the club help recently.

An Anonymous donor added 50,000 taka this past week, from within Dhaka.

A further 3,000 taka was received all the way from Australia, thanks to Emma Stroud.

Our most sincere thanks to all of you, your donations help Habitat continue to Build Homes and Change Lives in Bangladesh!

2008-05-12T10:15:00.000+06:00

ROYAL VISIT TO HABITAT BANGLADESH BUILD IN SAVAR – 9 May 2008

On Friday, May 9th, Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh welcomed his Royal Highness, Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, to a building site in Savar. Accompanied by His Excellency Mr. Anwar Choudhury, the British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, as well as Mr. Chris Austin, the Country Director of British aid agency DFID, His Royal Highness was given a practical tour of the “Save and Build” program, the cornerstone of Habitat’s work in Bangladesh.

His Royal Highness, His Excellency and accompanying dignitaries were shown the ongoing construction of a home by volunteers, Habitat staff and homeowners, allowing the assembled party to personally experience the value of community involvement Habitat places upon its projects. Speaking to Habitat Bangladesh Volunteers Program Manager Sanjay Saha, His Royal Highness discussed the inroads Habitat has made in attracting and hosting both national and international volunteers, an essential part of the Habitat building process. The assembled group expressed admiration at Habitat Bangladesh’s success in consistently recruiting local volunteers for its projects, allowing the organization some measure of sustainability, and encouraging the local community to be active participants in the welfare of those less fortunate.

A brief program followed the site visited, with Habitat Bangladesh CEO Roger Bodary thanking the Duke and assembled guests for their visit and kind patronage, as well as imparting some of the founding principles for Habitat’s work in Bangladesh. “When we help a community, a family build, we’re not just building a house, we’re building a home, we’re building up dignity”, said Mr. Bodary. “We have a saying at Habitat Bangladesh, when you give the gift of a home, you’re giving a gift for life.”

His Royal Highness in turn thanked Mr. Bodary, and reflected upon the value of Habitat’s work in Bangladesh: “I’m very please with the way momentum has built up.” Praising Habitat Bangladesh’s increasing capacity in the country, Prince Richard then offered his congratulations to Habitat staff for their work and dedication.

His Excellency Mr. Choudhury echoed His Royal Highness’ thanks, and in turn expressed his positive impression of both the organization and the programs it undertakes in Bangladesh. “To be able to provide a home at no interest, that is a marvelous thing, more people should know about it, and I will do what I can to tell them about it”, said Mr. Choudhury.

Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh’s “Save and Build” program works with communities to develop financially viable saving habits, encourages the value of community support and allows families to build homes through a no-interest loan. Families are then supported through every stage of the building process, from purchasing materials to the final stages of construction. By working with volunteers, both local and international, as well as partner home-owners, Habitat is making decent, affordable housing a matter of conscience, building durable, sustainable homes throughout Bangladesh.

For more information on Habitat Bangladesh, as well as details on how to volunteer or donate, please visit our website at www.habitatbangladesh.org.

Story and pictures – Pierre Johannessen.

What is Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh?

2008-04-29T16:23:00.001+06:00

Bhuapur Flood Rehabilitation Project

2008-04-29T15:26:00.002+06:00

Habitat completes 120-home project in Bhuapur.
Click here for article.

Al Jazeera Report

2008-04-29T11:14:00.001+06:00

The following is a report from AL Jazeera, showing Habitat Volunteers working in Mirzaganj.

As stated in the report, there are many more families to help; if you would like to be involved in the Cyclone Rehabilitation Program, whether personally or as a corporate partner, please visit our website or contact our Resource Development team.

Dhaka Triathlon Club Charity Run

2008-04-24T11:56:00.002+06:00

The Dhaka Triathlon Club is holding a 4-mile Charity Race for Habitat Bangladesh!

Pull on your running shoes and get to the American Club on FRIDAY, APRIL 25 by 7.30 am to register and participate in this fantastic event!

Entry fee is 500 taka for our Habitat Bricks - the organisers are aiming for 100 people to finance the cost of a complete house, so make sure you spread the word!!

More info can be found on the DTC site.

Buy a Brick for Bangladesh

2008-04-24T11:46:00.002+06:00

Habitat Bangladesh is selling pocket sized bricks, for only 500 taka!

Your contribution is equivalent to the cost of between 200 to 500 bricks for the homes we build.

We can also fit a custom message on the back of the bricks, in full color if required.

Delivery is also possible throughout the world, upon inquiry.

Get your bricks today, and help Habitat Bangladesh continue to Build Homes and Change Lives!!

Building in Patuakhali

2008-04-24T11:15:00.001+06:00

Habitat Calendars Available

2008-04-24T11:03:00.002+06:00

Get yours today!!

Picture taken by Pierre Johannessen, during a needs assessment mission by Habitat Bangladesh to Patuakhali, following Cyclone Sidr.

Habitat Bangladesh is currently working in Patuakhali, Building Homes and Changeing Lives. For more information, please visit our website.

E-Newsletter 2nd Edition

2008-04-24T10:59:00.004+06:00

Contents:
1 Bhuapur Flood Rehabilitation Project Dedication Ceremony
2 Volunteers in Patuakhali
3 Global Village/Volunteer Teams
4 Fundraising
5 Hoops for Habitat
6 Coming Events
7 Asia/Pacific Updates
8 Habitat Merchandise
9 Regular Program

1. Bhuapur Flood Rehabilitation Project Dedication Ceremony
Habitat for Humanity Int’l Bangladesh handed over rehabilitation shelters to 120 flood affected families in Bhuapur, Tangail during a house dedication ceremony on 3rd March 2008.

The ceremony was organized at the Arjuna Union Council in Bhuapur upazila in Tangail District. Md. Akther Ali Sarker, Deputy Commissioner of Tangail was present at the occasion as the Chief Guest.

Yoshihiro Sakakibara Fist Secretary for Development Cooperation and Economic Affairs of Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor.
In her speech Megumi Nishijima International Program Officer of Habitat Japan expressed her gratitude to the audience in Bangla. She cherished all who came to celebrate the House Dedication Ceremony.

While recalling the situation after the flood she said when the assessment team visited the villages by boat, they couldn’t see houses but water every where. She said, “The area almost looked like an ocean. We witnessed people were trying to evacuate with their belongings by boat.” She also mentioned the critical conditions at the shelter camps. She added “People were living at congested and very small places with tiny shelters made of jute sticks. There were no safe water and sanitation. People have no enough food. Agricultural products were damaged. But people had the urge to go back to their own places after the water subsides and start all over again.”

Ms. Megumi thanked HFHI-B staffs to respond even on holidays. She continued her touchy speech saying, “All though there were lots of discussions and arguments along the way now everything turned to me like good memories.” She gave her gratitude to each Project staffs including drivers and cooks by their names and mentioned how their enthusiasm was instrumental in completing the project on time.

In concluding her remarks she cited the home owners’ duty. She said, “Now it depends on you how you will make your lives comfortable. You have to work hard, face new challenges and bring changes in your lives.”

Whilst speaking at the ceremony Roger Bodary the CEO/National Director of Habitat for Humanity Int’l Bangladesh thanked Govt. of Bangladesh especially for the cooperation and timely approvals of the Disaster Management Bureau, NGO Affairs Bureau and local government of Tangail District to make this project such a success.

He said “Habitat for Humanity is indeed very pleased to be able to be a part of the flood rehabilitation effort of the Government of Bangladesh. Our only sorrow is that we could not have provided more.”

2. Volunteers in Patuakhali
This past month has been quite busy for The Patuakhali Cyclone Sidr Project. Volunteers from Christian Aid Mission (CAM) have been diligently working on-site, creating the first of many transitional shelters for those affected by Cyclone Sidr.

The CAM teams were met by a contingent from ARUP, a global design and business consulting firm specializing in building and construction engineering. The ARUP team comprised of employees from the U.K., Australia, Italy, South Africa and the United States.
The project was also visited by a local group, comprising of Habitat staff and supporters, as well as a noted photojournalist.

3. Global Village Teams/Volunteer Teams
This has been a busy month for Sanjay, our Volunteers Manager, hosting 6 teams since the last e-newsletter. The following teams joined Habitat Bangladesh during the last month:

Rits Habitat (Campus Chapter)
Kandai Habitat
Meiji Gakuin University
International School Dhaka
ARUP Grup
JCC Kansai

To be a part of the Global village program, please contact Sanjay, sanjay@habitatbangladesh.org

Pierre is organizing yet another group of local volunteers to visit our builds around Bangladesh. Some positions are still available for the 24th and 26th of March. Please contact Pierre if you would like to join a 1-day build on those days.
Pierre@habitatbangladesh.org

4. Fundraising
Sponsor a regular home only at USD 800 or Taka 56,000. You can donate a core shelter unit for our Sidr rehabilitation project with Taka 70,000.

A little bit of your sharing can ensure a home for a family. To donate or getting involved with Habitat Bangladesh contact Emelda at emeldam@habitatbangladesh.org

5. Hoops for Habitat
On Saturday, 15th March, a charity basketball tournament, Hoops for Habitat, was organized to benefit local NGO Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh.

Organized and run by a team from Dhaka, comprising of an Australian (our own Pierre from the RD/PR Department), 2 Frenchmen and a Bangladeshi, the event drew 20 teams and over 150 people, raising 16,700 taka for Habitat’s work in rural Bangladesh, building homes for those most in need.

The event was sponsored by the International School, Dhaka, who provided the venue and support staff free of charge, as well as Virgin Cola, who generously provided refreshments for players and spectators alike.

Comprising of a 3 on 3 tournament and a 3-point contest, Hoops for Habitat attracted a diverse range of players, from Bangladeshis to Americans, Chinese to French.

After 5 hours of competitive basketball, the “Big Bangs”, incidentally the organizer’s team, emerged as tournament victors. They were presented the trophy by Roger Bodary, CEO of Habitat Bangladesh, and in turn presented Mr. Bodary with the proceeds from the tournament.

6. Coming Events
a) Concert for Habitat - April
b) Battle of the Bands - April
c) Rep Your School Competition – More details soon!

7. Asia/Pacific Updates
Some of our stories from the field will be appearing on the Habitat Asia/Pacific website, keep checking the website!
www.habitat.org/ap

8. Habitat Merchandise
Both our Calendars and Bricks are still available, get yours today!
Bricks: 500 taka
Calendars: 150 taka
Contact us for orders.

9. Regular Program
House Projection:

Total family served = 1197
Under Construction = 35
Family served for the month of February = 58
Total FY 08 Family served = 133

E-Newsletter 1st Edition

2008-04-24T10:50:00.003+06:00

Contents:

1 Welcome!
2 School Presentations
3 Global village/Volunteer Teams
4 Fundraising
5 Website
6 Coming Events
7 Asia/Pacific Updates
8 Habitat Merchandise
9 Disaster Response Project
10 Regular Program

1. Welcome
Welcome to the 1st E-Newsletter for Habitat Bangladesh!
This will be a monthly newsletter informing all Habitat Staff, partners and volunteers about the activities of HFHI-B.

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, feel free to email us, we would love to hear from you.

2. School Presentations
On January 23rd, the RD team visited the International School, Dhaka, (ISD) to give a presentation about Habitat Bangladesh to the senior school assembly.

Over 1,200 students and teachers were given a presentation about Habitat’s work, values, goals and volunteer programs, in anticipation of the School Build planned for March 2008.

The RD team answered questions from students and teachers alike, and presented the school with information and marketing materials to display until the build.

ISD has been a fantastic supporter of Habitat Bangladesh, not only through donations, but also through support of our Buy a Brick project, as well as through volunteering
for builds!

Our sincere thanks and appreciation go out to Rebecca Garbenis and Alison Stanton from ISD, who have been instrumental in the partnership between the school and Habitat.

3. Global Village Teams/Volunteer Teams
On the 6th of January, Sanjay bid farewell to the Youth Builders from Korea. The 23 students visited Mymensingh and helped build 4 houses.

The team also visited the Mymensingh Agriculture University, and were also treated to a visit and dinner with the Garo Tribal Community.

Sanjay’s work with GV teams seems never-ending; the next team arrives on the 3rd of February, building in Satkhira and leaving on the 13th.

GV teams are an integral part of the fundraising for Habitat Bangladesh; they are also an amazing and rewarding way to experience both Bengali culture and the power of
helping others build their own homes.

Experience the joy of volunteering. Contact Sanjay at sanjay@habitatbangladesh.org

On the 18th of January, Pierre took a team of volunteers to visit Habitat’s Flood Disaster Project in Bhuapur. This successful event allowed the volunteers to experience both the technical expertise of the project staff as well the scale in which we are building.

More day trips to Bhuapur are planned for the near future, please contact Pierre if you would like to participate.

The cost per person is 1,000 taka, and includes transportation to and from the site.
Pierre@habitatbangladesh.org

4. Fundraising
We are thankful to our donors for their generosity to raise fund locally. During the last quarter we got six new individual donors. It was a pleasure meeting new people and knowing their vision to improve living conditions for the poor. We extend special thanks to Barbara Brown, Community Liaison Office Coordinator of US Embassy Dhaka. She is a magnificent fundraiser. This Fiscal Year staffs of US Embassy Dhaka sponsored 6 houses.

Our deepest appreciation goes to Shirin Huda, who inspired her friends and family to support Habitat’s Sidr project. We want to thank Shikha Nag and Dorothee Binsfeld of ADBSA Manila for their contributions to Habitat Bangladesh Sidr rehabilitation fund.

Thanks goes to Francois and Chye de Ryckel and their friends from Belgium for their support for building homes for the Sidr victims. Thank you Mariha Chowdhury for raising funds to help building decent homes for Habitat beneficiaries.

Between July to December 2007 our in country fund raising stands at Taka 18,40,871 and 1250 US Dollars. God bless our donors and friends!

Sponsor a regular home only at USD 800 or Taka 56,000. You can donate a core shelter unit for our Sidr rehabilitation project with Taka 70,000.

A little bit of your sharing can ensure a home for a family. To donate or getting involved with Habitat Bangladesh contact Emelda at emeldam@habitatbangladesh.org

5. Website
As many of you would have noticed, the Habitat Website has been, and continues to be, redeveloped. Your feedback is invaluable, so please let us know what you think!
You can access the website at http://www.habitatbangladesh.org/

In the coming week we will be loading Google Earth links so visitors to the site can see exactly where we build, as well as view pictures directly from the build site!

6. Coming Events
a) US Embassy Build, Kaliganj, 15th and 16th February
b) Chevron Donation Handover- Details in next edition
c) Rep Your School Competition – More details soon!
d) Bhuapur Project visit, Tangail, Fridays in February
e) School visits – More details soon!
f) Bhuapur House Dedication - More details soon!
g) Sidr Response Project – More details soon!

7. Asia/Pacific Updates
Some of our stories from the field will be appearing on the Habitat Asia/Pacific website, keep checking the website!
www.habitat.org/ap

8. Habitat Merchandise
Both our Calendars and Bricks are still available, get yours today!
Bricks: 500 taka
Calendars: 150 taka
Contact us for orders.

9. Disaster Response Project
The Program and Disaster Response Department would like to report that they have just completed the 50th House in Bhuapur, Tangail.

Our congratulations to the team, and our best wishes for the continued success of the project.

10. Regular Program
As of January 2008, in fiscal year 2007-08, Habitat for Humanity International – Bangladesh has built 75 Save and Build Homes, bringing the total number of families served to 1139.
Congratulations to our new home-partners!

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE:
HABITAT BANGLADESH 2008 WALL CALENDAR
100 Taka
For orders please contact info@habitatbangladesh.org

Road #23/B, House #7, 2nd Floor
Gulshan-1, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
Tel: +88 02 883 2945
Mob: +88 01 726 7025 47
E: info@habitatbangladesh.org
http://www.habitatbangladesh.org/
http://www.habitat.org/

Welcome!

2008-04-23T16:21:00.000+06:00

Welcome to the Habitat for Humanity Int'l - Bangladesh Blog!

Here we will keep you updated on all the goings on in our organisation. Feel free to ask any questions, we would love to hear from you!

Don't forget to check out our website, Habitat Bangladesh, for the history, purpose and values of our organisation.

Sincerely,

Habitat Bangladesh.