Housing Improvements

High Tech Group located in Queretaro, Mexico specializes in hydroponic cultivation of vegetables, especially tomatoes. From the Needs Assessment, the High Tech Group Fair Trade Committee identified that 87% of workers require home repair and that most required improvements to bathrooms, floors, and ceilings. 58% of the the workers live in their own homes and felt this was a strategic long term investment. Vouchers of $8,000 USD were provided to 225 direct beneficiaries for the purchase of construction material. The benefits of this direct investment carry over to families of the workers of High Tech Group as well. The acute action was to improve housing, however improvements to a home often align with poverty reduction, health, and livelihood programs. It is easier to implement digital inclusion, nutrition, and education initiatives when basic housing needs are met. In addition, strengthened structures are better equipped to handle natural disasters, reducing loss of life and property. Improved housing also prevents long-term displacement and the need for emergency shelters. Even more so, safe housing fosters community pride, social cohesion, and mental well-being.
This investment helps to reduce vulnerability to displacement and improves security, especially for women and children.