The “Plus Can” Project

CEBU, Philippines - Shelter is among the basic human needs, along with food, clothing, and education. However, not all have the access to good shelter. In 2012, the homeless in the Philippines numbered 4 million, with more than a million living in the urban areas. Most of these people had spent 45 years in extremely substandard dwellings, a living condition made worse by pollution and peace-and- order problems.

In a few years, it is estimated that half of the country’s population will be in the cities. At present, cities like Cebu already experience overpopulation and overcrowding. Housing space is increasingly scarce.

To address the worsening housing problem, certain organizations are trying to look for possible solutions, among them the Habitat for Humanity Philippines. This non-governmental organization has been in the country for 28 years, building shelters for homeless Filipinos.  In Cebu, the organization has had projects, particularly in Yolanda-stricken communities in Bantayan Island and Bogo.

The organization aims to build 800,000 homes all over the country by 2020. Last Thursday, September 22, Habitat for Humanity launched a fund-raising campaign called Plus Can. The cans, with a unique plus-sign-shaped slot, come in different colors. Each can costs P500, which amount goes entirely to a housing fund for deserving indigent beneficiaries. The purchased cans may then be used for saving money – the filled cans either to be later returned to Habitat for Humanity  Philippines as donation or the owners may just want to keep it for good.

Those interested to purchase the Plus Can may email to [email protected] or visit the website www.restore.habitat.org.ph. More details about this housing advocacy are found at www.facebook.com/habitatphilippines, @HabitatPhils on Twitter and Instagram, and at www.habitat.org.ph. Photo by Noreen Tormis (FREEMAN)