Former US Prez Carter to build free homes near Lonavala

Mumbai, Oct 26 (UNI) Habitat for Humanity International, a global non-governmental organisation (NGO) in association with former American President Jimmy Carter, will build 100 homes as part of the Habitat's annual Jimmy Carter Work Project (JWCP), in a village near Lonavala.

The week-long housing project starting from October 30 of this month to November three, will be attended by large number of volunteers from India and abroad including US naval personnel to assist with the constructions.

Jonathan Reckford, Chief Executive Officer of Habitat for Humanity International says, ''Habitat for Humanity is grateful for the volunteer and financial contributions from many dedicated partners in this project,'' ''Their involvement demonstrates a clear commitment to improving the lives of families in need of decent housing, and the result of their participation will be a positive, having a lasting impact on the entire community.'' he said.

The Habitat, which will build homes in India in partnership with low-income families living in dilapidated and temporary homes, is involved in building houses since 1983, making it the largest home building programmes in the country.

Ever since 1984, Mr Carter and his wife have given one week of their time to build homes and raise awareness about the need for simple, decent and affordable housing. Previous JCWP projects were executed in New York City, Georgia, Michigan,the Philippines, Hungary, South Korea and South Africa. While, Habitat's JCWP 2007 will be in Los Angeles.

Funded by Citigroup Foundation, the JWCP project is part of the latest USD two million grants donated to Habitat for Humanity International.''At Citigroup, we are committed to making a difference in our local communities because we are there,''said Kevin Kessinger, chief operations and technology officer, Citigroup and Habitat board member.

''We specially selected 28 employees from 11 countries who are long-time Habitat volunteers to travel to India for this project.

These employees exemplify the commitment that Citigroup has for promoting and supporting volunteerism.'' he added.

Habitat for Humanity International, a global NGO is dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in the United States in 1976, Habitat has built more than 200,000 houses in nearly 100 countries, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than one million people.

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