Monday, October 4^th is World Habitat Day

Habitat for Humanity believes that all members of our society are entitled to the basic housing rights of affordability, adequacy and suitability. On World Habitat Day, Habitat for Humanity around the world will raise its voice to emphasize the importance of simple, decent and affordable housing.

We know that affordable housing leads to better outcomes for individuals and families and ultimately leads to a better society and more productive nation. Through our work, we have seen the transformative affect of having a safe, secure and affordable place to live; children do better in school, and families have more funds to spend on other necessities like childcare, utilities and food. Through affordable homeownership, families build long term assets, contribute to the economy in new ways, and reduce their reliance on other forms of social assistance.

This year, Habitat and our partner Genworth Financial Canada have launched the third annual Meaning of Home Contest – a national contest that challenges students across the country to express how very important home is in shaping their lives and the lives of others.

We urge you to stand up on World Habitat Day, to give a voice to the voiceless, to let it be known that adequate housing should be made a priority everywhere – in your community, in your town, in your country, in our world.