The tsunami that killed so many thousands and made hundreds of thousands homeless has been one of the greatest catastrophes to hit humankind in recent times.

Ordinary people and governments of all complexions have responded magnificently.

How are we in the housing sector going to match the generosity and compassion for those who have suffered so much? That is the challenge for us now.

We can either write out cheques for token amounts or do something remarkable to match the feats of the pensioners who have donated their winter heating allowances or the children who sold their Christmas presents and contributed the proceeds.

I am proposing that all chief executives and senior staff of housing associations donate a month’s salary to an appeal to rebuild homes in affected areas. I suggest that all other staff contribute a week’s wages. We at Arhag have already made that commitment.

Please join us and let us for a moment think of the thousands who died, the children who became orphans and the million or so made homeless through no fault of their own.

Arhag, through the Refugee & Migrant Housing Forum, is supporting the Asian Community People’s Organisations that are linked to the grass-roots communities.

Ronnie Moodley, chief executive Arhag Housing Association

Source

Housing Today