Artsakh - Rebuilding Communities - Armenia

Rebuilding Communities: A Home and Livelihood Initiative for Forcibly Displaced Armenians from Artsakh.

Project Overview:

The "Rebuilding Communities" project is a comprehensive initiative designed to provide support and opportunities for forcibly displaced Armenians from Artsakh. This project aims to empower 100 Families with housing, sustainable livelihoods, energy independence, and essential furnishings, with the overarching objective of preserving, rebuilding, and strengthening their communities.

Project Components:

1. Housing Support:

- Home Provision: 100 Families will be offered the opportunity to receive homes free of charge, enabling them to enjoy all the rights and privileges of homeownership, except for the option to sell or rent the property.

- Village Relocation: In addition to providing homes, the project will involve the purchase of properties in existing villages where scalability is feasible, with an average budget of $10,000 per home. This approach ensures that families can stay within their community or close to their original homes.

2. Economic Empowerment:

- Livestock Assistance: Families with prior experience in animal husbandry will be supported in acquiring livestock, offering them a sustainable source of income and food.

- Tools for Trade: Displaced individuals engaged in various crafts (e.g., mechanics, carpentry, tailoring) will receive assistance to obtain essential tools, enabling them to reestablish their livelihoods and contribute to their communities.

3. Energy Independence:

- Solar Water Heaters: A dedicated budget of $20,000 will be allocated to install solar water heaters in the homes. This not only reduces energy costs but also contributes to energy independence. Past projects in Artsakh have successfully installed 50 solar water heaters for larger families, with the cost ranging from $800 to $1150 depending on the unit's size.

4. Essential Furnishings:

- Families will receive essential household items, including refrigerators, stoves, beds, washing machines, and irons. These furnishings enhance their quality of life and ensure that they have the necessary appliances to lead a comfortable and functional household.

Project Impact:

The "Rebuilding Communities" project aims to achieve several significant outcomes:

- Preservation of communities: By providing homes and economic opportunities within or near their original villages, we aim to keep communities intact and foster a sense of belonging and solidarity.

- Empowerment: Families will have the means to support themselves, reducing dependency on external aid and facilitating long-term self-sufficiency.

- Energy sustainability: The installation of solar water heaters promotes eco-friendly energy solutions while lowering energy costs for families.

- Improved quality of life: Essential furnishings contribute to a comfortable living environment, enhancing the well-being of displaced Armenians.

Budget and Funding:

The project requires a total budget of 1,500,000, which will cover home purchases for 100 families, livestock support, tools, solar water heater installations, and essential furnishings.