Habitat for Humanity India launches Brick-Aid digital housing campaign

Habitat for Humanity India has introduced Brick-Aid, a nationwide digital fundraising campaign designed to mobilise support for safe, secure and decent housing for marginalised communities. Launched alongside the organisation’s 42nd anniversary, the initiative brings together business leaders, global partners and public advocates to highlight the growing need for resilient and affordable homes across India.

The announcement was made in the presence of Rajashree Birla, chairperson of the IndiaBUILDS advisory committee, along with public figures including John Abraham and Jacqueline Fernandes. The campaign also coincides with the 20th anniversary of the IndiaBUILDS advisory committee, which comprises business leaders and philanthropists supporting Habitat for Humanity India through volunteerism, partnerships and advocacy.

Brick-Aid functions as a virtual giving model where individuals can ‘donate a brick’ online to help support housing for vulnerable families. Each virtual brick represents a symbolic contribution and supporters are encouraged to nominate others, generating momentum through a peer-led participation structure. The campaign aims to build awareness and resources for affordable housing while promoting green building practices, renewable energy and climate-resilient design.

Anand Kumar Bolimera, national director of Habitat for Humanity India, said that Brick-Aid is intended as a collective call to action to build sustainable and equitable communities. He noted that each pledge supports Habitat’s work in improving living standards and advancing secure housing.

The launch also featured a panel discussion on ‘Housing for All’ with contributions from Niranjan Hiranandani of the Hiranandani Group of Companies and NAREDCO National; Jayesh Shah of Svatantra Housing Microfinance Corporation; and Patrick Canagasingham of Habitat for Humanity International. Moderator Dhaval Monani guided the conversation, during which Hiranandani highlighted the government’s allocation of INR 60,000 crore each for urban and rural housing, characterising it as a significant step towards expanding subsidies for low-income and economically weaker households.

At the anniversary event, Jacqueline Fernandez spoke about her association with Habitat for Humanity India, emphasising the campaign’s focus on dignity and community. Other contributors included Rajashree Birla, Sheila Kripalani, Harlan Stone and Rajni Basumatary.

Habitat for Humanity India and its network organisations have impacted more than 97 lakh people through housing, sanitation and disaster response programmes, with more than 78 lakh individuals now residing in homes built or improved through its support. Its WASH initiatives have reached over 34 lakh people, reinforcing the organisation’s long-term commitment to sustainable and resilient communities.