Typical Costa Rican Home
The average Tico lives in a one story home. Usually the roof overhangs the structure to provide added shelter. |
Costa Rican's tend to spend little time or resources on improving the landscape or curb appeal of their home. You are more likely to see chickens running around instead. |
Housing available
In certain parts of Costa Rica, luxury condominiums line the coast and large villas sit high in the mountains. In the poorest parts of the country exist some of the worst homes in the world. |
There is wealth in Costa Rica, but a high percentage of luxury homes are owned by foreign investors.
|
Statistics on the Homeless
Costa Rica has a population of 4.5 million; of these more than one million live in poverty. More than 52% live in inadequate houses or settlements.
|
Factors behind homelessness
One or more issues may be the cause for an individuals housing problem.
- Few jobs opportunities available
- Lack of access to healthcare; can't afford it, unaware care is needed or chronic condition not covered by Government sponsored program thus preventing person from working .
- Natural Disasters, including but not limited to flooding, earthquakes and hurricanes
- Mental disorder where mental health services are unavailable or difficult to access
- Disability, especially where disability services are non-existent or poor performing
- Social exclusion because of sexual orientation and gender identity
- Substance abuse
- Lack of affordable housing
- Domestic violence.or relationships breaking down (couples or parents/children)
- Eviction or mortgage foreclosure
current event
What Will You Change: Housing in Costa Rica
Lee and Lisa Mirman are committed to developing affordable housing for the working poor in Costa Rica. Personal financial success from years of brokering luxury waterfront real estate sales along the Florida Gulf Coast has allowed this couple from the US to use their passion, education and experience to bring together resources for the greater good.
Lee and Lisa Mirman are committed to developing affordable housing for the working poor in Costa Rica. Personal financial success from years of brokering luxury waterfront real estate sales along the Florida Gulf Coast has allowed this couple from the US to use their passion, education and experience to bring together resources for the greater good.
“Costa Ricans are considered some of the happiest people in the world,” Lisa says. “They are also very receptive to education. They welcome volunteers who will help them learn English, job skills, etc. to take care of their families. It’s really humbling.”
Creating housing and home ownership opportunities for impoverished Costa Rican families is gratifying for the Mirman's; especially for Lisa because her mother was originally from here. Every home they build is 500 sq ft.; each with 2-bedrooms, 1-bath, and 1-larger all-purpose room.
“The standard of living there is low, but the people’s ability to build their own community is very moving,” says Lisa(Daytime MBA ’96). “They just need a bit of financial support to better their lot in life. It’s very motivating for us.”
The couple established Investments in Costa Rica. Working in conjunction with the Costa Rican government to secure financing, and the Peace Corps to provide training, support, education and community assessment, together they are building new homes and new communities. They plan to begin work creating similar programs and opportunities in neighboring Latin American countries to help relieve the burden of poverty and homelessness.
http://www.fuqua.duke.edu/news_events/feature_stories/housing/#.VKlvnyvF98E
http://www.fuqua.duke.edu/news_events/feature_stories/housing/#.VKlvnyvF98E