The need for assistance is great in developing nations. Like Canada, but usually on a much greater scale, these countries lack safe, decent and affordable shelter. Unlike Canada though, these countries do not have the individual or corporate donor base to make the dream of adequate shelter a reality. Inadequate housing is a global problem that requires a global solution. Habitat for Humanity Canada recognizes that we must address the problem of inadequate housing internationally as well as domestically.

Purpose of the Program
Habitat for Humanity Canada is part of a global network of Habitat for Humanity organizations that include international development as a core activity. Habitat for Humanity organizations in both developing and developed countries are active in this program – developed nations raise funds, which are distributed to developing countries to coordinate housing projects. As a national office in a developed nation, funding international projects is an expectation of being part of the Habitat "family”.

About the Program
The International Homebuilding Program’s goal is to build at least one house internationally for each house built in Canada. This is accomplished by using tithe donations from local affiliates to fund international development projects through Habitat for Humanity Canada.

Projects funded by Habitat for Humanity Canada are generally community-based self-help programs focused on the provision of safe, decent and affordable housing. Often, the programs also have a strong emphasis on the promotion of good governance and the encouragement of private sector development, while improving health and educational outcomes and advancing environmental sustainability.

History of the Program
Habitat for Humanity Canada’s International Homebuilding Program began in 2002 and has since directly supported and been involved in significant community development projects in 28 developing countries. The total amount of support provided through the program since 2002 is $3 million.

In 2010, Habitat for Humanity Canada’s International Homebuilding Program funded the building of the equivalent of 345 homes.

Where We Have Built
Currently, Habitat for Humanity Canada has chosen to concentrate its international homebuilding efforts in the following countries and regions:

Latin America/Caribbean:
Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua

Europe/Central Asia:
Hungary, Macedonia, Tajikistan

Africa/Middle East:
Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia

Asia/Pacific:
Bangladesh, Nepal, Vietnam

* The countries in bold are eligible for matching funds from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) - i.e. Haiti & Tajikistan

How You Can Help
Worldwide, communities are in constant need of homes to replace those lost due to natural disaster, war, or poverty.

Please give to our International Building Program.

The spending of funds is confined to programs and projects approved by the Board of Directors of Habitat for Humanity Canada. Each contribution designated towards such an approved program or project will be used as designated with the understanding that when the need for such a program or project has been met, or cannot be completed for any reason determined by Habitat for Humanity Canada, the remaining restricted contributions will be used where needed most.

Interested in volunteering internationally? Then check out our Global Village Program.