mother and daughter feeling safe in Poland

Stories from Europe

Decent housing is a foundation for anyone to have a prosperous life. Land and property values, and rents have been going up recently. As a result, more and more people in Europe face problems finding a decent place to live.

To lower housing costs, we help make homes more energy efficient. It helps reduce energy poverty and minimizes climate change. We also advocate for accessible and affordable housing on local, national and international levels.

Learn more about our work in Europe.

School children washing their hands at a hand washing station in school

When the rain no longer brings fear: Strengthening access to water and sanitation in Makululu, Zambia

For Mary, a mother and grandmother living in Makululu, an informal settlement in Zambia, the sound of rain once brought fear. Through a community-driven Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) project funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Habitat for Humanity Zambia partnered with residents and local government to transform access to essential services.

picture of a mud home with netting on windows and doors

World Malaria Day 2026 | Rethinking homes to stop malaria

In many parts of the world, the word home evokes safety. But for millions of families living in substandard housing, home is where some of the greatest health risks begin. From respiratory diseases to heat-related illnesses and vector‑borne illnesses like malaria, unsafe housing conditions expose low‑income families to dangers that no one should have to endure.This World Malaria Day, Habitat for Humanity recognizes the life‑saving power of healthy housing, because preventing malaria requires a holistic approach, where mainstream tools like nets and medicine work hand in hand with strong walls, secure roofs, good ventilation and the dignity of a home that protects the people who live in it.

A woman and three children sit outside their home smiling

Recovery after Cyclone Freddy: Opening the door to resilience in Malawi

When Cyclone Freddy swept through southern Malawi in March 2023, entire communities were left without homes and livelihoods, and many lives were lost. The torrential rains triggered devastating floods and landslides, destroying homes and displacing thousands of families overnight. Their story is a reminder that recovery after disaster often begins with a home – opening the door to resilience for families and communities alike.