Introduction
Housing and Shelter NGOs in India are vital in meeting one of the most basic human needs, as millions across the country lack access to safe and secure shelter, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the homeless, disaster-affected families, migrants, and urban poor living in overcrowded slums. Rapid urbanization, natural disasters, and economic disparities exacerbate this crisis, leaving many without stable homes.
These NGOs play a critical role by providing temporary shelters, constructing permanent housing projects, and implementing rehabilitation programs that restore hope and stability. Through partnerships with government bodies, local communities, and international organizations, they address housing shortages and advocate for the rights of the marginalized.
This blog highlights the top 10 Housing and Shelter NGOs in India, with Unessa Foundation making a significant contribution to this mission across diverse regions.
Top 10 Housing and Shelter NGOs in India
01
Habitat for Humanity India
Focus: This globally recognized NGO provides affordable housing, sanitation, and disaster-resilient shelters for vulnerable families across India.
Why it matters
Offers sustainable housing solutions for low-income households.
02
Aashray Adhikar Abhiyan
Focus: Focused on the rights of the homeless in Delhi, this NGO provides temporary shelters, legal advocacy, and access to essential services.
Why it matters
Protects the rights and dignity of urban homeless populations.
03
Goonj
Focus: While known for disaster relief and rural development, Goonj also creates shelter support through innovative clothing-for-dignity and rebuilding initiatives.
Why it matters
Integrates shelter with broader community empowerment.
04
Shelter Associates
Focus: An NGO that combines technology with social work, Shelter Associates works on urban housing and slum redevelopment projects.
Why it matters
Improves living conditions in densely populated urban areas.
05
Prayas
Focus: Based in Delhi, Prayas provides shelter homes for children, women, and marginalized communities, ensuring safety and rehabilitation.
Why it matters
Offers a safe haven and support for vulnerable groups.
06
Ashray Akruti
Focus: This NGO focuses on providing housing and support for children with hearing disabilities, ensuring inclusive shelter solutions.
Why it matters
Addresses the specific needs of differently-abled children.
07
Snehalaya
Focus: Operating in Maharashtra, Snehalaya offers shelter to women and children affected by poverty, abuse, and HIV/AIDS.
Why it matters
Provides compassionate care and rehabilitation services.
08
Don Bosco Network
Focus:With shelters across India, Don Bosco supports homeless children and youth by providing safe spaces, education, and skill development.
Why it matters
Focuses on the holistic development of at-risk youth.
09
Udayan Care
Focus: This NGO provides long-term group housing and family-like care for orphaned and abandoned children.
Why it matters
Creates stable, nurturing environments for vulnerable children.
10
Unessa Foundation
Unessa Foundation works to provide housing and shelter support for underprivileged families and disaster-affected communities. Its initiatives aim to create safe living spaces and restore dignity
Key Strengths:
- Strong Focus on Vulnerable Communities
- Strong Focus on Vulnerable Communities
- Rapid Disaster Response Capability
- Community-Centered Approach
Why These NGOs Matter: Tangible Impact
India’s housing crisis is intensified by rapid urbanization, frequent natural disasters, and economic inequalities, leaving millions, especially in rural and coastal regions, without safe shelter.
Safety & Protection
The housing NGOs India and shelter NGOs India listed here are driving transformative change by constructing homes and offering temporary shelters to vulnerable communities.
Economic Independence
These NGOs implement solutions like slum upgrading and rehabilitation programs, helping communities move toward more stable and improved living conditions.
Leadership & Advocacy
NGOs for homeless and housing support NGOs advocate for the rights of the homeless and collaborate with local governments and donors to deliver disaster-resistant housing and reach remote villages and urban centers alike.
Unessa Foundation housing and shelter aligns with these efforts, integrating shelter support into its humanitarian mission, fostering an ecosystem where vulnerable communities are empowered with safe living spaces, resources, and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
Conclusion
In 2026, Housing and Shelter NGOs in India are more than just organizations—they’re pillars of hope empowering communities with secure homes and dignity. Through housing projects, disaster recovery, and advocacy, these NGOs, including Unessa Foundation, are helping address the housing crisis, restore stability, and build resilient societies, shaping a brighter future. By tackling challenges like urban overcrowding, disaster vulnerability, and poverty, and leveraging government schemes and community partnerships, you can contribute to a society where everyone has a safe home. These efforts uplift vulnerable lives, strengthen community resilience, and inspire global housing solutions. Start small—start today.
To explore the purpose, impact, and role of NGOs in society, check out our comprehensive guide at Unessa Foundation’s Understanding NGOs.
FAQs
What do Housing and Shelter NGOs in India do?
They provide temporary and permanent housing, disaster-relief shelters, sanitation facilities, and rehabilitation support to homeless and vulnerable communities.
Who benefits from these housing initiatives?
Homeless individuals, slum dwellers, disaster-affected families, migrants, abandoned children, and marginalized communities across urban and rural India.
How do NGOs like Unessa Foundation support housing?
Unessa Foundation helps build safe shelters, supports disaster-hit families, improves living conditions, and works closely with communities to ensure long-term rehabilitation.
How can I contribute to housing and shelter programs?
You can donate funds, volunteer, support construction material drives, or help NGOs raise awareness on housing rights and homelessness.
Are donations to housing NGOs secure and tax-deductible?
Yes, most recognized NGOs use secure payment gateways (like Razorpay), and donations often qualify for tax benefits under Section 80G.
❤️ Donate to housing and shelter programs❤️
Your contribution directly funds safe shelters, legal aid, and vocational training, driving tangible change and upliftment.
Your donation helps us fund:
- Construction of affordable homes
- Temporary shelters for disaster victims
- Sanitation and water facilities in shelters
- Rehabilitation support for homeless families
Even a small monthly contribution can fund building materials, shelter setups, or rehabilitation aid for multiple households.
