Habitat for Humanity Australia has been making significant strides in our international programs, particularly through our initiatives in Battambang Province, Cambodia. The program, aimed at empowering vulnerable communities to recover from disasters, climate change risks, and the impacts of COVID-19, has successfully formed and trained Participatory Approach for Safe Shelter Awareness (PASSA) groups. These groups have been instrumental in empowering the community and in raising capacity for disaster and climate change risk mitigation and adaptation.
Over the past six months, Habitat for Humanity Australia’s efforts have led to tangible outcomes, including the construction of resilient housing, the implementation of WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) and waste management projects. These initiatives have directly improved the living conditions of numerous families, providing them with safer, more sustainable shelters and access to essential services. The program has not only focused on immediate needs but also on building long-term resilience through community-led development projects and capacity-building activities.
One of PASSA’s recent achievements is the completion of eight new homes, offering both shelter and stability to families in need. They’ve also delivered a series of educational and engagement initiatives, including the training of 200 individuals and the participation of 400 more in activities aimed at raising awareness on key issues such as menstrual hygiene and gender mainstreaming. These participants included men, women, and children, some of which had disabilities. This inclusive approach not only amplifies the program’s reach but also ensures that the benefits of development are equitably distributed among all community members. These efforts reflect a holistic approach to development, recognising the importance of addressing both physical and social infrastructure to foster resilient communities.
Habitat Australia’s initiatives in Cambodia exemplify a commitment to building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. By focusing on both immediate needs and long-term resilience, our programs highlight the efficacy of collaborative, community-led development projects. As we continue our work, the progress in Battambang Province stands as a testament to the potential for concerted action to make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable populations, aligning closely with the shifting values and aspirations of communities worldwide, including those navigating the changing landscape of homeownership in Australia.
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 Cambodia to provide access to safe shelter.