Sumitra Devi, a resilient 60-year-old woman, has spent years battling adversity in her village. Her life has been marked by poverty, illness and the constant struggle for survival.   

Today, when the sun sets over Aakera, Sumitra sits on her porch in front of her new home, watching her family. A smile spreads across her face. This is the life she always dreamed of. “We have lived in that tin shed for so long,” Sumitra shares referring to her old house, her voice filled with weariness. “It has been a tough life, but we have endured.”  

Sumitra's family includes two young grandsons who attend the nearby government school. Her son works as both a mechanic and a daily wage labourer to contribute to the family's income. However, despite their combined efforts, their income remains insufficient to meet all their basic needs. Their days are filled with challenges, from the lack of basic amenities to the constant threat of illness. “My elder grandson fell seriously ill a few years ago,” Sumitra recalls. “The contaminated food took a toll on his health.”  

Sumitra's family was granted a plot of land by the Government of Haryana. However, due to limited financial resources, they were unable to construct a permanent dwelling and were forced to make do with a temporary, makeshift shelter. Her husband's struggle with alcoholism had a profound impact on the family. His untimely demise left Sumitra as the sole breadwinner, placing a significant burden on her shoulders.    

Nevertheless, Sumitra demonstrates remarkable resilience by supplementing the family's income through her own entrepreneurial endeavours. She skilfully makes ghee (clarified butter) from the milk produced by her buffaloes, which she then sells to contribute to the family's livelihood. But despite all these efforts they don't have the resources to build a home of their own. 

"We did not even have a proper place to cook," Sumitra recalls. "We had to borrow an LPG cylinder or often cooked on a chulha, enduring the smoke and dirt. This led to frequent health problems, especially for our children.” The monsoon season brings additional hardships. The leaky tin roof and the risk of flooding kept the family on edge. “We fear for our children's safety during storms,” she says.  

The lack of a stable and secure home limited their opportunities for economic growth and hindered their children's access to quality education. The lack of basic amenities like a proper bathroom and toilet added to their daily struggles. These necessities required them to travel long distances, increasing their vulnerability and adding to their daily burdens. These compounding challenges created a cycle of hardship, making it difficult for Sumitra and her family to escape their precarious situation. 

Living in close proximity to forests and mountains also posed significant safety concerns. Nights were often spent in fear, with elders staying awake to guard the children against potential animal attacks. This constant state of vigilance took a toll on their emotional and mental well-being. 

With support from Max Estates and Habitat for Humanity India, Sumitra and her family have been able to build a beautiful, sturdy home — a space that reflects their resilience, hope and dreams. The walls are strong, the roof is secure and the windows offer a glimpse of a brighter future. "It feels like a dream come true," Sumitra says, her eyes filled with gratitude. "This house is more than just bricks and mortar; it's a symbol of health, safety for my children’s future," she shared, her voice filled with pride. 

“I can’t believe this is really happening,” said Sumitra during the construction, as she watched her long-held dream of a permanent home take shape, brick by brick. “I have always longed for a safe and secure home for my family. I dream of having family meals at a table, free from the dust and dirt,” she shares. “I want to spend my remaining years in a home that offers comfort and security”, she further adds envisioning a future filled with peace and stability.  

Her grandson, who once suffered from illness due to poor living conditions, can now take better care of his health as there is a less chance of contamination in food and water. The clean and hygienic environment has significantly improved his health. "He is much happier now," Sumitra shares. "He can play outside without worrying about getting sick."  

Decent shelter is a fundamental human need, a cornerstone upon which families can build a stable and thriving future. Sumitra’s story powerfully illustrates this point. Living in a dilapidated tin shed and riddled with health hazards, her family faced a daily struggle for survival. Her grandson's illness, a direct consequence of the poor living conditions, serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of inadequate housing. Her new home has transformed her life.  

 "This project was not just about building a house," Sumitra shares. "It was about building the community. We have been given a gift that will last a lifetime. We will always be grateful for their kindness and compassion," she adds.  

The family's newfound stability has brought joy and peace to their lives. They can now cook meals without the fear of smoke inhalation and they no longer have to worry about the monsoon rains as well. Children can study in peace and the elderly can rest comfortably. 

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 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.