In a major step towards reaching out to rural communities and help improve their standard of living through its housing and sanitation outreach project, Habitat for Humanity (HFH) is planning to intensify its campaign ‘Rupee for Change’, involving 500-plus schools across the country this year.
The fundraising campaign not only encourages students to be part of changing lives of the poor by contributing just Re.1 per day but also allows them to do their bit to society by volunteering for the NGO at constructions sites. Partnering with the local NGOs and volunteers, HFH provides affordable and decent houses to the needy across the world through its core projects such as shelter assistance, sanitation and disaster risk reduction and response. From 19 schools that were part of the campaign launched in 2013 to over 250 schools in 2015, HFH intends to bring 500 schools into its fold by next year. Of this, 75 schools from Telangana and 50 across Andhra Pradesh will be added to the current year’s list.
Sources in the organisation told The Hindu that the ‘Rupee for Change’ also focuses on creating awareness on Housing for All by 2022 – national mission for urban housing through customised workshops for students. With the campaign picking up its pace across the country over the last couple of years, the NGO plans to cater to 70,000 families through its housing, sanitation and disaster interventions by next July. “Rupee for Change campaign allows students to get a clear picture of what it feels like without a roof over one’s head and the impact of leading an unhygienic life, engaging them in construction work and eventually raising funds for the purpose,” says Rajan Samuel, managing director of HFH India.
Those who have partnered with the NGO define the process as a new learning experience. “Apart from primary students who came forward to lend support to ‘Rupee for Change’ launched last year in our school, over 50 students of classes IX to XI volunteered for rebuilding 83 houses at Anantagiri Mandal in January. The emphasis is on how students can make a difference, empathising with the poor,” says Manija Subrahmanyam, Principal of Oakridge International School, Tagarapuvalasa.
More than 50 students of classes IX to XI have volunteered for rebuilding 83 houses in Anantagiri mandal.
Manija Subrahmanyam
Principal,
Oakridge International School
