CEOs from 10 companies build with purpose alongside Habitat Honduras

Villanueva, Cortés. More than 30 leaders from 10 Honduran companies joined as volunteers in a construction brigade organized by Habitat for Humanity Honduras, replacing dirt floors with concrete floors in the homes of three vulnerable families in the Ernesto Dieck community in Villanueva, Cortés.

The brigade was convened by the organization’s volunteer leaders: Alberto Díaz Lobo, chair of the Development Council (HDC), and María del Rosario Selman-Housein, executive president of Bi Banpaís, member of the HDC, and leader of Women Build in San Pedro Sula.

“It has been a great privilege for me that they have come to this place and brought me something worthwhile: a cement floor where I will now live better and more peacefully with my family,” said Martha, head of one of the three beneficiary families.

“Getting to know Habitat Honduras has been one of the greatest blessings I have had in my life. Having the opportunity to contribute to work like this fills me with great satisfaction,” said María del Rosario Selman-Housein.

Positive impact on health and well-being

Replacing dirt floors with concrete floors has proven benefits for health and quality of life. A study conducted in Mexico by the World Bank and the University of California revealed that, following this change, households reported:

78% fewer parasitic infections in children
49% fewer cases of diarrhea
81% fewer cases of anemia
36% increase in cognitive development

In adults, the results included a 59% increase in housing satisfaction, 52% fewer cases of depression, and a 45% reduction in stress levels.

Solidarity and social responsibility

The construction brigade, developed under the slogan “Leaders building with purpose,” not only improved the livability of the homes, but also strengthened the social commitment of the participating companies, promoting solidarity, teamwork, and corporate social responsibility.

In Honduras, the housing deficit stands at 61.9%, highlighting the urgent need for collaborative initiatives to provide decent and safe housing solutions.

The companies Bi Banpaís, UTH, Molino Harinero Sula, Concasa, Incal-Calidra, Banco de Occidente, Lázarus & Lázarus, Compañía Azucarera Hondureña, Gilda, and Corporación La Cumbre joined this solidarity effort, with their representatives reaffirming their commitment to the well-being of the most vulnerable communities.