From Fires to Storms, and Buckets to Buildings
At Habitat for Humanity Australia, we know that safe housing is key to building community resilience to the effects of climate change. Across Asia and the Pacific, families are already experiencing the impacts of rising temperatures, more intense storms and prolonged droughts. In Nepal and Vietnam, we are working alongside local communities to increase the climate-resilience of homes and neighbourhoods. From fire preparedness in rural Nepal to stronger, safer housing in remote villages of Vietnam, these community-led solutions are helping families protect their health, dignity and futures in the face of a changing climate. These projects receive support from the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) and is in partnership with our implementing partners Habitat for Humanity Vietnam and Habitat for Humanity Nepal.
A Bucket of Water, Life Transformed: Building Fire Resilience in Dhanusha
In Nepal’s Dhanusha district, fires are a constant and devastating threat. During the dry season, strong winds and thatched roofs can turn a small spark into a destructive blaze. In the first ten months of 2024 alone, Dhanusha recorded the highest property losses due to fire in all eight districts of Madhesh Province, with damages exceeding Rs 80 million ($1.5M AUD). The main causes included cooking-related accidents, electrical short circuits and the careless burning of waste. For many households, cooking over open flames is a daily necessity, but it also brings an ever-present fear.
Recognising the urgency, the RISEN project brought the community together for a fire awareness program. Members of the Community Disaster Management Committee (CDMC) were trained in simple, practical steps to reduce fire risk, such as keeping a full bucket of water nearby while cooking. What began as a small change quickly became a daily routine.
After the training, CDMC members gathered to reflect on what they had learned and committed to taking action. The results were remarkable. In the year following the training, no fire incidents were reported in the community. This is powerful proof that disaster risk reduction can begin with simple, community-led actions at home.
From Fragile Shelter to Safe Haven: The Story of Mr. Phang A De’s Family in Vietnam
In a remote village in Vietnam lives the family of Mr. Phang A De, one of many disadvantaged H’Mong households.
Their old house spanned just 30 square meters and was in a state of severe disrepair. The fibrocement roof leaked, the timber frame was infested with termites, and the bamboo walls were unstable. Rainwater streamed across the dirt floor at night, leaving the family anxious and unable to rest. With no latrine and poor sanitation, their health and safety were always at risk.
Change came through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity Vietnam, using a climate-resilient, community-driven approach that transformed the family’s home. The new house was designed to withstand the region’s harsh weather conditions, offering protection from storms and dampness. It also included a proper toilet, improving sanitation and reducing health risks, particularly for women and children.
These improvements were not just about comfort. They were about building resilience, protecting health and restoring dignity.
Mr. De shared how the new home has brought happiness, better health and peace of mind to his family.
From a simple bucket of water in Nepal to a safe, storm-resistant home in Vietnam, these stories show that resilience starts with community-led solutions. When families have the tools, knowledge and safe housing they need, they can protect their health, safeguard their futures and thrive even in the face of climate change. At Habitat for Humanity, we are committed to working alongside communities to build not only homes, but also strength, stability and hope for generations to come.
These projects receive support from the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) and is in partnership with our implementing partners Habitat for Humanity Vietnam and Habitat for Humanity Nepal.
Together, we can build safe homes, resilient communities and hope. Donate today at habitat.org.au/donate.