CHF International

Although originally founded in 1952 to provide affordable housing, CHF (Cooperative Housing Foundation) International has become one of the largest and most influential international relief organizations worldwide. In 2009, it supported hundreds of projects in 25 countries. Each project is initiated and led by the communities they benefit. Yet CHF prides itself on involving governments, local organizations, international technical experts, and the private sector in projects as well, in order to create sustainable and targeted solutions that thrive even after being handed over to local leadership. In doing so, CHF strengthens the capacity of the communities in which it works.

CHF’s programs target all dimensions of the Millennium Development Goals. Core areas of work include:

Economic Development
CHF’s programs work with farmers and artisans to increase productivity, while promoting community cooperatives and microfinance loans to empower small businesses and create jobs for disenfranchised populations.
Emergency Relief
CHF’s programs respond to natural disasters through provision of essential supplies, construction of durable emergency shelter, and assistance with income restoration—all of which provide both pivotal immediate and long-term support.
Governance and Civil Society
CHF’s programs bring community members together across ethnic, religious, and tribal backgrounds. By integrating local and national government in this process, CHF empowers citizens and keeps governments accountable.
Health
CHF’s programs strengthen community health systems; prevent malaria; and reduce the burden of HIV/AIDS by prevention, care, treatment, and support services.
Infrastructure & Housing
CHF’s programs work with local communities to identify and address infrastructural needs, leading construction of new roads, clean water and sanitation systems, schools, health clinics, homes, and electrification projects.

CHF has repeatedly received recognition for its strong financial efficiency and transparency. Nearly 92% of CHF’s $263 million of total expenses goes directly to international programming, with only 1.2% and 6.7% of total expenses supporting fundraising and administration.

Help support the work of CHF International across the world.