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At Habitat for Humanity Australia, we work in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh to deliver housing solutions that strengthen resilience and improve wellbeing. This project receives support from the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP), ensuring that more families living in poverty and informal settlements can access safe, decent housing and brighter futures. 

Md. Borhan’s Journey to a Brighter, Safer Home 

Md. Borhan, a 40-year-old vegetable vendor, lives in a slum in Bangladesh. A widowed father of four, Borhan has spent years navigating the challenges of raising his children alone while earning a modest income selling vegetables from a van. His days begin before sunrise and often end late at night, as he moves from street to street trying to make enough to feed his family. 

Life in Fragile Housing 

Despite his hard work, Borhan’s living conditions were dire. His home was a small, fragile structure with a broken tin roof. There was no ceiling to shield the family from the intense summer heat, and during the monsoon season rainwater poured through the roof, soaking their belongings and making the floor slippery and unsafe. 

The children struggled to sleep, study, or even stay indoors during the day due to the heat and discomfort. Borhan often worried about their health and future, knowing that no matter how hard he worked, the condition of their home put them at constant risk. 

A Home Transformed 

Through Habitat’s support, Borhan’s home underwent a remarkable transformation. A new, sturdy tin roof was installed, complete with a proper ceiling to help regulate indoor temperatures. A transparent tin sheet was placed strategically on the roof to let in natural daylight, brightening the home and reducing the need for electric lighting during the day. 

These seemingly simple changes had a profound impact. The house became cooler, drier and more comfortable. The children could now study in natural light, sleep peacefully at night and enjoy a healthier indoor environment. For Borhan, the improvements brought emotional relief and renewed hope, knowing his home was finally safe and habitable for his family. 

Lasting Change Through Housing 

Borhan’s story is a powerful reminder that small, targeted housing interventions can create lasting change. It also highlights the importance of working directly with communities in informal settlements to design housing solutions that are practical, affordable and sustainable. 

As urban populations continue to grow, especially in informal settlements across Bangladesh and beyond, Borhan’s journey shows that safe housing is not a luxury. It is a foundation for health, dignity and opportunity. 

💙 Together, we can ensure more families like Borhan’s have a decent place to call home. Donate today at habitat.org.au/donate. 

This project receives support from the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) and is in partnership with our implementing partner Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh. 

Habitat for Humanity Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the country on which we work, the peoples of the Eora Nation, and recognises their continuing connection to land, water, and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. We respectfully acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands and waters of Australia. 

We are endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office as a Deductible Gift Recipient with charity status. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. Habitat for Humanity is accredited by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), responsible for managing the Australian Government’s development program. Habitat for Humanity Australia receives support through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).

Habitat For Humanity Australia ABN: 29 131 976 004
Habitat for Humanity Australia Overseas Aid Fund ABN: 36 747 459 174
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