Vikram Singh is a man of quiet strength, his life marked by resilience and unyielding hope. At 43, he navigates the world with a unique perspective. Though his eyes are veiled by visual impairment, his vision extends far beyond what is seen, driven by love for his family and a deep-seated determination to break free from the cycle of poverty.
Vikram shares his life with his mother, his wife Meena and their two school-going children. Together, they run a small grocery store, the primary source of income for the family. Despite his visual challenges, Vikram works tirelessly alongside his family, making sure the shop remains open and thriving. Their combined earnings cover basic necessities: food, school fees, dairy and medical expenses. All this costs Vikram INR 2000 every month. The cost also covered the rent for their modest home and the shop — a delicate balance that often leaves them with little to spare.
The family's living conditions are far from ideal. Their home, a two-room structure over 45 years old, struggles to withstand the test of time. During the monsoon season, water seeps through the tin roof, flooding the cramped rooms and forcing them to move their belongings constantly to keep them dry. Yet, the physical state of the house is just one of their many challenges.
"We don't have a bathroom or toilet," Vikram shared. "We have to rely on neighbours or go far into the fields to relieve ourselves." For Vikram, whose vision makes navigating unfamiliar spaces daunting, this lack of basic sanitation is a daily struggle.
The weight of responsibility grew heavier after the loss of his father last year. "My father was the main provider. His death has put a lot of financial pressure on me," Vikram shared, his voice a mix of resignation and hope. Even with the mounting challenges, his spirit remained unbroken. The family clung to hope — the one that arrived in the form of Habitat for Humanity India.
With the support of Max Estates – a leading real estate developer – Habitat for Humanity India began a housing project, with an aim to build homes for families living in poor, marginalised and vulnerable conditions in Rewari district of Haryana.
On 19th November 2025, the first 25 homes in Aakera were handed over to families marking the completion of the first phase of this initiative. Vikram was one of the proud homeowners. As he stood before his new home, a sense of disbelief and gratitude filled his heart. "I am so grateful for this opportunity. This new home will change our lives. It will be a place where my children can grow up safe and healthy," Vikram said, his voice brimming with emotion.
The new house is more than just four walls and a roof; it is a promise of dignity and security. Designed with Vikram's visual impairment in mind, the home structure features a leveled floor wide doorways and sanitation units that make it easier for him to navigate independently. For the first time, the family has a proper kitchen, a clean bathroom, an ample amount of natural lighting and enough space for everyone to rest comfortably.
"I can now move around freely without the fear of tripping or bumping into things," Vikram shared, his relief evident. His wife, Meena, echoed his sentiments. "We can now cook and clean comfortably. The children have their own room and we have a space to relax and spend time together." For them, the house represents not just physical security, but a chance to dream bigger — to imagine a life unbounded by the constraints of poverty and fragile walls.
Vikram's story is a testament to the power of safe and accessible housing. His journey underscores how strong, stable homes are crucial for building resilient communities, especially for individuals living with disabilities.
The generous support of Max Estates has enabled Habitat for Humanity India to build safe and dignified homes for 50 families in Aakera and Budhla villages of Rewari district in Haryana. These marginalised families were earlier living in poor housing conditions. The project is being implemented in two phases. In the first phase, 25 homes have been built in Aakera. The families have moved into their new homes and are building a better future for themselves. The second phase is currently underway in Bhudla village, where Habitat India is building homes for 25 families.
Driven by the vision to build a world where everyone has a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity India remains steadfast in its commitment to help families achieve strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter — transforming lives, one home at a time.