Yogyakarta, October 2008: The Yogyakarta Affiliate has expanded working areas to Solo, Central Java, which is approximately one hour drive from Yogyakarta. The initial project of HFH Indonesia in Solo is located in Bengawan Solo River Bank to improve house building and giving an awareness of disaster preparedness for the affected communities. The house improvement of the affected families in the first phase project is carried out by renovating 300 houses around the area of Bengawan Solo River Bank.

Attended by Solo City’s Head of Local Social Welfare office, HFH Indonesia’s National Boards and National Director, a ground breaking was held in Joyotokan village, Bororejo Sub District, Solo on 14^th October 2008. A renovation of 300 houses will be focus on floor parts. The project employs semi grant scheme with 50% is grant and another 50% of the budget is saving method and revolving fund method to fund more houses.

This first phase project is the starting point for long term collaboration with Solo city government to serve more families affected by the flood from Bengawan Solo. About 3761 families, who at present live in slums in Solo city, will be assisted once the first phase project completes. These families are the most prone victims to flood disaster due to their poor house condition.  

On 26^th December 2007, flood swept through nine areas in the Central Java town of Solo, forcing 26,720 people to flee their homes to safer ground. The flood occurred after Bengawan Solo overflowed following incessant rains. After the flood had occurred, HFH Indonesia took initiative to involve in Solo city for the communities in need. (cs).

Jimmy Masrin, Chairman Board HFH Indonesia start a new project in Solo by placing a floor in renovated house.