Safe Homes for All - International Day to Eradicate Poverty

2026 focus: Safe Homes for All

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed annually on 17 October, recognizes that ending poverty is inseparable from protecting human rights, human dignity and peace.

Under the 2026–2028 theme “United for Peace and Human Rights,” the 2026 observance focuses on “Safe Homes for All,” highlighting adequate housing as a foundation for security, participation and a life of dignity.

More than 2.8 billion people worldwide face some form of housing inadequacy. People already experiencing poverty and exclusion bear the greatest burden. Without a safe and stable home, access to health care, education, employment and participation in community life becomes far more difficult.

Housing insecurity is not simply a question of shelter. Unsafe, unaffordable, overcrowded or insecure housing can reinforce poverty and exclusion, and undermine the enjoyment of other human rights. The 2026 concept note, therefore, calls for housing policies and systems that place human dignity, human rights and people's needs at their centre.

For 2026, the Day calls for action in three key areas:

1. Make safe housing a human-rights priority: Respect, protect and progressively fulfil the right to adequate housing, and give a dignified standard of living the appropriate priority in public policy and budgeting.
2. Design policies with people experiencing poverty: Move beyond token consultation and involve people experiencing poverty and housing exclusion directly in the design, implementation and evaluation of housing policies, recognizing them as rights- and knowledge-holders.
3. Mobilize resources for safe homes for all: Strengthen public financing and other resources needed to expand access to safe, accessible and affordable housing while ensuring that no one is left behind.

This year’s theme for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is “Safe Homes for All.” This theme resonates deeply with all of us at Hope for Korah, as we have witnessed firsthand the impact of housing insecurity on families in our community.

In recent months, many families in Korah have had their homes demolished as part of an urban development plan. With housing suddenly in short supply, some landlords have taken advantage of the situation by raising rents beyond what families living in poverty can afford. As a result, many are being forced into even more difficult living situations—unsafe, overcrowded, and unaffordable homes.

For families already facing the daily burden of extreme poverty, this added uncertainty has brought even greater stress and hardship.

We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our supporters who recognized this urgent need and gave to HFK’s emergency support fund. Your compassion has helped us come alongside families during this difficult time, providing much-needed support as they navigate the challenges of finding safe, affordable housing.

At Hope for Korah, we believe every family deserves a safe place to call home. This International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, we are reminded of how essential safe, stable housing is to breaking the cycle of extreme poverty and building a brighter future. 

Emergency Relief Fund Update.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Hope for Korah has been able to provide emergency assistance to more than 100 households affected by the recent housing demolitions and related hardships in Korah. Through the Emergency Support Fund, some have received rental assistance, while others have received help with food and essential supplies. This support has helped families navigate a difficult time of transition and uncertainty.

We have also welcomed 50 additional children and adults into the Berta Breakfast program, helping ensure that more members of the Korah community can begin their day with a nutritious, protein-rich breakfast. 

In addition, we have had the privilege of partnering with the community on an important housing project for three elderly community members living with leprosy right next to the trash dump. Their previous home was in such a desperate state that it needed to be demolished, leaving them in need of safe and suitable housing. Together, we are helping build a new home that will provide these elders with a safer place to live and serve as a home for vulnerable community members for years to come.

We are deeply thankful for the generosity of our supporters, whose compassion helps Hope for Korah respond to urgent needs in the Korah community. From emergency rental and food assistance to long-term housing solutions, your support is making a meaningful difference. 

A New Home for Community Elders

One of the elders inspects his new home, currently under construction.

The old home being demolished.

Ato Damte sitting in his old home before demolition.