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In the United Sates alone, 95 million people, one
third of the nation, have housing problems including
payments too large a percentage of their income,
overcrowding, poor quality shelter and homelessness.(1)
Throughout the world, people live in inadequate housing,
and Habitat for Humanity is dedicated to providing
decent, affordable homes for those in need.
Importance of clean, decent, and stable
housing
Habitat for Humanity has shown that building homes does
more than put a roof over someone's head. When families
have a stable, affordable home, they can:
- Provide stability for their children
- Gain improved health, physical safety, and
security
- Increase educational and job prospects
- Be engaged in their communities
Housing is important to the quality of life, health
and economic prosperity of the entire community:
Health
Inadequate housing impacts health, especially the health
of children. After moving into Habitat homes, asthma and
allergies are two conditions that dramatically improve
in children.
Economic prosperity
A healthy housing market attracts businesses that depend
on a range of housing options for their employees.
Education
Stable, healthy housing is one of the most effective
strategies for improving school performance in low
income children.
Transportation
When people can find good housing that they can afford
near their work, it improves our transportation system
by decreasing congestion and reducing commuting costs.
Environment
Habitat's commitment to green building produces
energy-efficient homes that are more affordable to
maintain. Additionally, building housing near public
transportation and thriving job centers results in
diminished air pollution and congestion.
(1) America's Neighbors: The Affordable Housing
Crisis and the People it Affects,
National Low Income Housing
Coalition, Washington, DC (2004)
www.nlihc.org
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