BENGALURU: I had never dreamt that I could have a complete house in this life-time. Looking at all the women working alongside me, helping me build my home has given me a newfound strength. I can finally sleep peacefully in my new home without any worries. I am grateful to all the volunteers, says Pavithra, a future Habitat homeowner hailing from Tippu Nagar in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Living in a dilapidated house, Pavithra works as a domestic help to eke out a living for her family.
The urban housing shortage in India stands at 18.78 million units, out of which about 96% is in the Economically Weaker Section and Low Income Group categories. Women and children are most likely to be affected by poor living conditions and unhygienic surroundings.
In many parts of India, women are still deprived of their basic human right to adequate housing, ownership of land and proper sanitation. Lowe’s has partnered with Habitat for Humanity to address the affordable housing crisis that is growing not just at a national level in India but globally.
On International Women’s Day – celebrated around the world on 8th March – around 100 women associates of Lowe’s India volunteered with 8 families in Tippu Nagar located in Bengaluru, Karnataka and helped them build homes.
The Lowe’s Heroes worked alongside these future Habitat homeowners, empowered the underprivileged women and their families by rallying the cause of decent homes and safe sanitation for all. The build is part of International Women Build Day, a global effort led by Habitat for Humanity and Lowe’s.
Hundreds of women volunteers will also help build and improve homes in locations in the U.S. and Canada. In recognition of the International Women’s Day, Habitat for Humanity and Lowe’s will raise awareness of the affordable housing needs facing women and children around the world.
