Every time it rained, Phuong and his wife Loan would rush home, hearts pounding.

Had the cold, damp air seeped through the flimsy walls again?

Were the dirt floors already flooded and muddy?

Had the old roof survived the high winds?

And most importantly — were their grandchildren safe?

Phuong and Loan live in Northern Vietnam. For over 25 years they’ve called a fragile house made of wooden columns and woven bamboo sticks their home. Despite their efforts to improve it over time, the structure remained vulnerable — especially during storms, when they feared it might collapse. On windy nights, drafts made it too cold to sleep, and in the summer, the heat was unbearable.

Loan often took their grandkids to a neighbour's home to sleep, either to escape the sweltering heat or because their own house was too wet and unsafe during heavy rains and subsequent flooding.

“During those times, I felt being indoor is no different than being outdoor,” Loan recalls.

Supported by Habitat Canada donors, Habitat for Humanity Vietnam helped Phuong and Loan build a new climate-resilient home that is strong, dry and suitable for their growing family.

Where the whole family once slept in a single room, there are now separate bedrooms. The grandchildren play on a clean concrete floor, and the sturdy roof and walls keep out the rain and wind. Today, Phuong and Loan no longer live in fear of the weather. Their new home stands strong — offering comfort and a deep sense of security and dignity.