Habitat for Humanity India, in partnership with Elevar Digitel, supported 49 tribal families in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu with home repairs and new sanitation units. Launched in October 2024, the initiative has improved living conditions for 245 individuals in Gummidipoondi and Ponneri by making homes safer and enhancing hygiene. Along with structural repairs and construction of household sanitation unis, families were also trained in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), empowering them to sustain these improvements and build healthier lives.
As part of the WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) training, awareness sessions were conducted, covering key hygiene practices such as toilet usage and maintenance, safe water handling, handwashing, menstrual hygiene and personal cleanliness. Through activities like group discussions, demonstrations and door-to-door visits, community members actively engaged in learning. A combined follow-up session for all 49 families and the distribution of IEC materials helped reinforce key messages. The training led to increased awareness and adoption of hygienic behaviours, encouraging consistent toilet use and improved sanitation practices, thereby contributing to a healthier and cleaner living environment.
“I am pregnant and nearing my delivery date. Until a couple of months ago, we were living in a dilapidated house with lots of difficulties and had no proper sanitation facilities, forcing us to use open spaces for defecation. My two little children and I had to walk a long distance which was both unsafe and risky. Today, I am overjoyed to have a safe home. I will be able to offer a better life for my soon-to-be-born child and all my children can live in a safe environment without health risks. - Ms. Ramya, Homeowner, Senjiamman Nagar, Tiruvallur District
“Dignity and respect matter to everyone. Sadly, as members of the tribal community, we have rarely been treated with such consideration. When repairs are needed in our homes, the workers we hire often demand that we step outside while they work, making us feel like outsiders in our own spaces. But this time, it was different. From labourers to the entire Habitat for Humanity India team, everyone treated us with dignity and respect. Even the construction workers sought our permission before entering our homes. For the first time in our lives, we truly felt seen, valued and respected.
Our women and children felt safe throughout the project, without encountering any risks. Most remarkably, we witnessed the rapid completion of construction - within just three months, we were handed over a fully repaired, secure home. It felt magical to us. Thank you, Habitat for Humanity India for this kind of support.” - Mr. Ramesh, Homeowner and a local leader, Senjiamman Nagar, Tiruvallur District.
