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Habitat for Humanity builds strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. Volunteer or partner with us on housing solutions to support people in need.

The Empty Spaces Partners page showcases the organizations and individuals supporting the project’s mission across Europe, with a focus on Poland and Great Britain.

The housing crisis and environmental sustainability are two of the most pressing challenges of our time. But what if we could address both simultaneously? That’s the bold vision behind Empty Spaces to Homes project, an innovative initiative launched in January 2024. Led by Habitat for Humanity International and funded by the Laudes Foundation, this initiative is transforming vacant and underutilized spaces in Poland, Great Briatin, Hungary, and Croatia into affordable, energy-efficient homes.

Europe is facing a dual crisis—an escalating housing shortage and a pressing need to reduce carbon emissions. With over 900,000 people homeless each night and 30 million vacant homes across Europe, the paradox is striking: while many struggle without adequate shelter, millions of properties remain unused. At the same time, residential buildings account for 36% of CO₂ emissions and 40% of energy consumption in the EU. 

Read news about Habitat’s work in Europe, the Middle East and Africa as well as current housing issues and innovations in housing markets.

Habitat’s response to this war meets affected families where they are, supporting their short-, mid- and long-term housing needs to achieve stability and recovery.

Croatia is facing a paradox: while housing costs are rising and many young people are locked out of the rental and ownership markets, nearly a third of all homes meant for permanent residence sit empty. This contrast lies at the heart of a new research report on the country’s housing landscape—one that uncovers not just the challenges, but the untapped opportunities for creating more inclusive, sustainable communities.

Hungary’s housing landscape presents a striking contradiction. Despite a growing number of dwellings—over 4.5 million—more than 570,000 stand vacant, while nearly 3 million people struggle with housing poverty. At the same time, the country’s population continues to shrink, creating a disconnect between where homes exist and where they’re needed most. A new research study from Habitat for Humanity Hungary takes a deep dive into this complex picture, offering an eye-opening look at how a more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable housing future might be built—quite literally—out of empty spaces.

Habitat for Humanity invites companies, corporations, and foundations to join its global mission of eliminating poverty housing. A growing number of Habitat’s corporate and foundation partners build with the organization or invest resources into creating simple, decent and affordable homes where they are sorely needed.