Using donations made to us we build self-progressing communities which help address the global housing need. This means while we build a solid infrastructure, and give people homes, we also use our unique partnerships to equip them with the life-skills, training and resources to make those communities thrive.
About Us
Global Social Housing is a business that was conceived 2 1/2 years ago. It is based on a housing shortage, a need that has been identified and supported by the United Nations. In 2010 the UN announced they are aggressively looking for solutions for the housing crisis. We are supported by the Peace Corps in Costa Rica, who will implement the communities once the build is complete and this is one of the characteristics which sets us apart.
About Costa Rica
The government of Costa Rica has dedicated itself to alleviating the problem of slum housing, in-line with it’s millennium goals to eradicate poverty. Partnering with Global Social Housing the government backs our social housing initiative with a cast iron guarantee from its National Bank. The BAHNVI National Bank has a 23 year record of funding of social housing projects. Click here to view all these projects.
How Big is the problem?
There are currently over 1 billion people living in urban slums around the globe. There are some estimates that peg the demand/need at $1billion per day. To read more about the social housing need click here
Who does it help?
The working poor. The hundreds of millions of people that have jobs and still live in urban slums or temporary housing. By temporary, we mean that for six months a year it may be dry season and they can live relatively safely in a dry river bed, however in wet season the river swells, the banks are flooded and people have to find a place to go until the following dry season.
Why are governments giving people houses?
The associated costs of public health, safety and security are greater than the investment of providing a home. For example, living in close proximity with poor sanitation is a breeding ground for highly infectious diseases like Malaria and Tuberculosis. The house also serves as a bridge back to society.
What makes what you are doing unique?
Governments do a great job of giving things to people in need; books, computers, and houses. However, sometimes there is not a thorough plan to ensure proper usage and subsequent success. In order to create successful and lasting transitions, we have partnered with the Peace Corps. They will provide volunteers for up to four years in our communities to ensure that the new residents have the capacity to thrive and succeed in their new homes and neighborhoods, which includes their personal and professional lives.
