The Challenge:

Imagine living in Kosovo, where conflict have left many without homes. People needed houses quickly and without spending a lot of money, but the usual way of building was too slow and too expensive. Everyone was looking for a new way to make homes fast and affordably, a way that would also bring everyone together to heal after the tough times. Click here to verify

"It was so sad to see families without a cozy place to live. We wanted a fast and smart solution, one that would really make us feel like a community again." - Arjeta, (a community leader)

The Solution:

Then, we found something amazing on Gaza999 - a project that let the whole community help build our homes. It wasn't just about putting up walls; it was about bringing us all closer, like knitting a big, warm blanket for all of us to share. 

"When we heard about this project from Gaza999, it was like finding a hidden treasure. It was our chance to start over, but together this time." - Bekim (a future homeowner)

The Implementation:

Arjeta and her crew started by getting everyone involved. They held meetings where everyone could share their thoughts and dreams for their new homes. They set up training so we could learn to build houses ourselves, giving us new skills and making us proud of what we could do. We used materials from around here, mixing old building secrets with new tricks. Building our homes became a project that everyone, young and old, worked on together.

 "Building our houses was like healing our hearts. Every brick we placed was a step towards mending." - Liridon (a local builder)

The Impact:

In just six months, our efforts transformed a landscape marked by loss into a thriving community of 50 new homes. Over 200 people, who once faced the uncertainty of displacement, now live in houses they built with their own hands. This monumental achievement not only provided shelter but also mended the community's fabric torn by conflict. 

"Now, when I walk around our new neighborhood, I see more than just houses; I see a powerful reminder of our strength when we join hands. This project didn't just give us back our homes; it gave us back our pride and hope for what's next." - Arjeta (proud community leader)

Lessons Learned:

• Tailored Training for Empowerment: Providing specific training that matched our community's needs was key. Teaching both traditional and innovative building techniques ensured our homes were not only cost-effective but also culturally resonant.

• Engagement in Design for Relevance: Involving everyone in the design process guaranteed that the homes met the actual needs and preferences of the community, ensuring their long-term satisfaction and commitment to the project.

• Leveraging Local Resources for Sustainability: Utilizing local materials and labor not only made the project more affordable but also boosted the local economy and ensured the environmental sustainability of the construction process.

• Community Cohesion Through Shared Goals: The project underscored the importance of shared goals in strengthening community ties. Working together towards a common objective fostered a sense of belonging and mutual support, crucial for the community's psychological recovery post-conflict.