Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland

Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland was established in 1994 by Peter Farquharson and his wife Jane McCarthy. Peter and Jane had spent 3 months volunteering at Habitat International Head office in Atlanta before taking up the challenge of establishing Habitat in Northern Ireland. When Habitat NI was established, Northern Ireland was still in the grip of 'The Troubles' and segregation of communities was at its most extreme. Peter envisioned to use the Habitat model locally as a way for communities and individuals to rebuild trust and restore relationships; bring Catholics and Protestants together to build houses with families in need - simply to build houses, build community and build hope. Peter and Jane faced doubt and scepticism from many at the beginning but 21 years on the Habitat model has proved to be a success in Northern Ireland, bringing together more than 25,000 volunteers from all backgrounds and faiths to work together for the good of families in need.