1.6. Progressive Housing Approach

The Spanish Red Cross created a special plan for earthquakes in El Salvador, known as PETES, which included three phases: emergency, stabilization, and rehabilitation.

The PETES plan developed by the Spanish Red Cross outlines a systematic approach to disaster recovery. First, there is an emergency phase that focuses on immediate needs such as removing debris and providing basic health services. This is followed by a stabilization phase, where basic needs for the displaced population are met, including shelter and sanitation. Lastly, in the rehabilitation phase, longer-term projects for rebuilding homes and community infrastructure are defined.

Think of PETES like a triage system in a hospital. Just as doctors first address critical life-saving needs (emergency), then stabilize the patient's condition (stabilization), and finally focus on rehabilitation and recovery (rehabilitation), the PETES plan similarly prioritizes the immediate needs of disaster survivors, gradually shifting to longer-term recovery solutions.

In the rebuilding process, a key aspect was the participatory approach, emphasizing continuous community involvement.

The participatory approach in the recovery process emphasizes that community members should be actively involved from the beginning. Instead of just providing aid and leaving, organizations work closely with the community to ensure that recovery measures meet the actual needs and preferences of the people. This ongoing relationship helps build trust and empowers the community, enhancing their ability to recover sustainably.

Imagine you want to build a treehouse for your friends. Instead of deciding everything by yourself and then surprising them, you invite them over to discuss what they'd like to have. By involving them in the design and construction, not only do they feel valued, but you also ensure that the treehouse is something everyone will enjoy and use.

The progressive approach allows for the construction of houses that can be extended and improved by the users over time, based on their needs and resources.

The progressive housing approach focuses on building homes that can grow with the family. Instead of constructing a house that is fully finished upfront, this method provides a basic structure that families can modify and expand upon as their needs change and they gain resources. This flexibility is crucial in regions where economic conditions may fluctuate.

Consider a video game where you start with a basic character and can gradually customize their abilities and appearance. Just like in the game, where you choose upgrades based on your gameplay style, families can adapt their homes according to their changing lives and available resources.

Houses were built on the same land as before the earthquakes to ensure safety, and families retained ownership, which fosters a sense of belonging.

One of the main principles of progressive housing is to rebuild on the same land to ensure familiarity and access to community resources. It’s crucial that the land is not prone to hazards like flooding. Additionally, retaining ownership of the land helps create a sense of belonging and responsibility, motivating families to invest in their homes and communities.

Think of it like a student returning to their childhood school to continue their education. This familiarity makes it easier for them to thrive, as they know the environment and feel a sense of belonging, just as families feel more secure returning to their original homes.

The construction process consisted of three stages: basic structural elements, materials support from organizations, and final completion with utilities.

The construction of the homes occurred in three stages. In the first stage, basic structural components like foundations and walls were built, often with labor donated by community members. The second stage involved getting materials from organizations like the Red Cross, who provided resources that the community couldn't source locally. Finally, the last stage focused on adding utilities like water supply and plumbing to make the homes livable.

Think of building a sandcastle. First, you gather the sand and create the basic structure (stage one). Then, you might need special tools or decorations (stage two) that your friends bring to make it beautiful. Lastly, you add the finishing touches, like flags or shells, to complete it (stage three). This collaborative effort makes the final sandcastle a product of teamwork.

--