For three Irula families in Orathur Village, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu, a new home marked the beginning of a new chapter - one rooted in greater safety, dignity and stability.

As part of Legacy Build 4.0, Habitat for Humanity India, with the support of Mr. Antony Miller, Ms. Cecilia Melin and the Volunteer Team from Japan, supported the construction of three new homes for vulnerable families from the Irula community. The homes were recently dedicated and handed over to the families through a virtual ceremony facilitated by Habitat for Humanity India, with the participation of volunteers from Japan and representatives from the local Panchayati Raj Institution.

Orathur is home to 18 Irula families, many of whom have lived in the village for nearly two generations. Despite their long-standing presence in the community, families continued to face challenges associated with inadequate housing and limited opportunities to participate in mainstream development. For these families, a safe and dignified home is an important step towards greater security and inclusion.

Among the families receiving a new home are Meena and her family, who received the key to a home they can proudly call their own.

For Divya and Mahendran, their new home offers a stronger foundation as they build their life together.

Shanthi and Muniyan, too, now have a place that represents dignity, stability and a stronger sense of belonging.

The handover ceremony was filled with moments of pride and joy as all three families received the keys to their new homes. For them, these keys represent more than access to a new house - they mark the fulfilment of a long-held aspiration and the beginning of a more secure chapter.

This milestone was made possible through the collective efforts of the families, Habitat for Humanity India, the Volunteer Team from Japan and supporters who believe in the power of housing to create lasting change. Together, these efforts are helping families build stronger foundations for their futures while strengthening their connection to the communities they call home.

Three homes. Three families. Three new beginnings - made possible by people coming together to build a future where every family can live with dignity.