At the end of 2024, Neneng (35), a mother from Bogor Regency, West Java, received the best gift she never imagined. Right in the midst of her struggle through life’s hardships, a real hope appeared—a decent home that is livable, provided by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia.
However, the surprise didn’t stop there. A day after the house was completed, her third daughter was born. These two consecutive blessings became the answers to the prayers that Neneng had been offering all this time. “I never imagined all of this happening. Allah has been so good to me and my family,” Neneng said while reminiscing about that beautiful moment.
Previously, Neneng’s life was filled with anxiety and struggle. The house inherited from her parents, where she lived with her husband and two daughters, was in a deplorable condition. The roof leaked, the walls were fragile, and the floor had holes. “When I was heavily pregnant, I was so scared. The house leaked when it rained, and there was even a snake that entered. I could only surrender, hoping everything would be okay,” Neneng recalled.
Komarudin (40), Neneng’s husband, was also in a dilemma. As an odd-job farm laborer, his income was far from enough to meet the family’s needs. Neneng had to help by collecting plastic and scrap materials around their house. However, the extra income only left her with loose change. “The most I could earn was Rp 20,000 a day. That was not enough to buy rice and other things for the kids,” said Neneng.
This situation made Neneng constantly worry about her children’s future. “I was so worried, wondering if this dilapidated house could provide a good future. Especially for the little one who was about to be born,” Neneng shared, recalling the anxiety that filled her days.
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But everything changed when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia came. With its commitment to helping families in need, Habitat rebuilt Neneng’s house into a decent home—a new foundation for a better life.
Now, Neneng is no longer haunted by worry. Her new house stands strong, offering comfort and a sense of security for her family. “I am so grateful for Allah’s blessing. My worries have disappeared. There’s no more story of a leaking house, and the kids can sleep soundly without fearing any animals getting in,” Neneng said with deep gratitude.
A new spirit at the beginning of 2025 fills Neneng and her family’s life. This new home has become a symbol of hope, a place where small dreams can begin to grow. Habitat believes that a home is the foundation of a better life. From here, health, education, and a bright future begin.
For Neneng, this house is not just a place to live. It is a promise to her children, especially the little one who was just born, that they will grow up in a decent and loving environment. “No matter what, this house is everything. It is the place where we rely on for a better life,” Neneng concluded with a smile, carrying hope for the future.
Let’s together make decent housing a reality for millions of families in Indonesia who are still struggling to find a safe and comfortable place to live. Every small step from #SahabatHabitat is a great hope for them, giving them the opportunity to live a better and dignified life. Donate now and be part of the change: www.habitatindonesia.org/donate
(kh/av)