Nepal – Our Global Tithe Partnership

Habitat’s vision is a world where everyone has a decent place to live. Our local efforts increase access to housing and sanitation in three countries – Lesotho, Nepal and Ethiopia. 38-year-old Sushila, mother of two living in Nepal, took her first housing loan and after years of hardship, she has a safe place for her family to live.

Sushila’s eyes sparkled with happiness when she shared, “The feeling is still surreal when I think about my first loan. I was so nervous and scared as to what future beheld for me. But when I see my house after all these years, I feel proud and happy”. It is the first time Sushila has a house that she can call her own. For 15 years, she lived in a rented two-roomed house that was narrow and congested. The rooms were shared with her big extended family and located in Nepalgunj near the airport. Situated in the Terai region, Nepalgunj is one of the hottest cities in the Banke District of Nepal. She experienced harsh living conditions in a home that was overcrowded, poorly ventilated, and the climate is hot.

Sushila’s husband is a police officer who works day and night to provide law and order to the public. However, the irony is that he struggled to provide a peaceful space for his own family. “When you live with extended family, crammed into a small space, conflict is inevitable.” She firmly believes that her children have suffered more than her other family members. Children are supposed to study in a peaceful environment, but her children were always surrounded by noise and conflict.

Life, however, took a beautiful turn for Sushila and her family after she took a housing loan. Now with a bigger and safer home, they enjoy private spaces filled with positivity and serenity. “We love our new house as it has got ample space for our growing family”, shared Sushila in her exuberant voice. Her daughter expressed excitedly, “I have my own room to study and play without any disturbance.” How Sushila’s face beamed with joy upon hearing those words!