Wayanad, Kerala, 19 May 2025 – Leading housing non-profit organisation Habitat for Humanity India, with support from Texas Instruments, has distributed 697 emergency shelter kits (ESKs) to families in Panamaram, Edavaka, Kottathara villages and the suburbs of Mananthavady and Sulthan Bathery Taluka in Wayanad, Kerala. The initiative aims to equip economically and socially disadvantaged households with shelter kits, including tribal communities, which are particularly vulnerable to recurring natural disasters such as floods.
The shelter kits are designed to help families carry out immediate repairs to their houses, especially to the roof and side walls. These kits will enable disaster-affected families to restore their shelters, ensuring safety during times of crisis and enhancing the community’s disaster preparedness in a region prone to heavy rain, flooding, and landslides.
Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Anand Kumar Bolimera, National Director, Habitat for Humanity India, said, “The distribution of shelter kits to 697 families vulnerable to disasters in Panamaram, Edavaka, Kottathara villages and the suburbs of Mananthavady and Sulthan Bathery Taluka in Wayanad is a step towards empowering communities to withstand and recover from the impact of natural disasters. By working closely with local volunteers and stakeholders, we are committed to prepare these families for the possible floods during the monsoon.”
“We are proud to support Habitat for Humanity India and its efforts to help flood-affected families,” said Aditya Salian, TI India’s Manager of Giving and Volunteering Programs. “Its focus on fostering resilience and sustainability aligns with our commitment to build stronger communities. It is our hope that the kits will be a significant step in helping families rebuild and secure their homes, paving the way for a stronger and more resilient future."
“We struggled a lot during the monsoon, as our small house was badly damaged. We often had to change our sleeping positions just to avoid getting wet. We were anxious about how we would manage to raise even ₹8,000 to repair our home before the rains began. The tarpaulin sheet, rope and other materials helped us repair our house and make it safer for the coming monsoon. It was an unexpected gift and a huge support for us,” said Ms. Susheela from Irulam Tribal Colony, Wayanad.
Habitat for Humanity’s emergency shelter kits are designed to provide temporary relief and protection to families affected by natural disasters until they find more permanent solutions to their housing needs. The kits include essential materials such as tarpaulin, rope, tie wire, pliers, a claw hammer, nails, washers, a hoe and a plastic sheet. These materials and tools enable families to repair damaged roofs, secure walls, and create safer living spaces, offering relief from the challenges posed by their damaged houses.
About Habitat for Humanity India
Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity India began in 1983 as a grassroots effort. The housing organisation has since grown to become a leading housing nonprofit that has helped over 57,000 underprivileged families in India build or improve a place they can call home. Through its housing, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) and disaster risk reduction and response programmes, Habitat for Humanity India has positively impacted the lives of more than 3.6 million people.
Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower.
To learn more, donate or volunteer, visit www.habitatindia.org.
For Media Inquiries:
Ritwik Sawant, Director – Communications, Habitat for Humanity India
Email: ritwiks@habitatindia.org
