A Jubilee of Hope, A Project with a Twist: Tonga’s 13 Houses Project

What began as a simple plan to help one family rebuild their home has grown into something much larger for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) in Tonga. Through the Famvin Homeless Alliance’s 13 Houses Jubilee Project, the team was able to extend support to four families, offering them not only improved housing but also a renewed sense of safety, dignity, and belonging.

Tonga is made up of 170 islands – about 30 of them inhabited – across four main groups: Tongatapu and ‘Eua in the south, Ha’apai in the center, Vava’u to the northeast, and the Niuas further north. On these islands, homelessness is usually connected to natural disasters, which can wipe out entire communities in a single event.

In recent years, Tonga has faced a series of major disasters:

• Cyclone Gita (2018)
• The 2022 volcanic eruption and tsunami
• Heavy ashfall across Tongatapu and ‘Eua
• COVID-19
• The loss of international communication after underwater cables were destroyed by volcanic activity

Some villages, such as Kanokupolu on western Tongatapu, were almost completely erased. Many people were relocated to government estates, while others depended on support from relatives overseas. Even with rebuilding efforts, many families still live in damaged or temporary structures.

The 13 Houses model offered SSVP Tonga a practical way to reach the families most in need of stable housing.

The original aim was to help one household. But thanks to the generosity of donors and the commitment of local volunteers, the project’s resources stretched much further. It became, in many ways, a quiet reminder that even a relatively small amount can grow far beyond expectations when a community works together.

Here are the families who received support:

House 1

A mother, her two daughters, and a granddaughter received assistance with the cost of the foundation for their home, giving them a safe and solid start to rebuilding.

House 2

A widow, her son and daughter-in-law, and their four children received support for contractor fees and building materials, helping the family restore a secure place to live.

House 3

As a single mother raising her son, she received help with interior repairs, including new doors and louvers, a small kitchen corner, and fresh paint.

House 4

Two brothers with disabilities required more extensive work for their house. Their home received a new foundation, interior walls, a new window, carpet, lighting, and complete repainting inside and out. SSVP also provided two mattresses, pillows, and bed sheets to improve daily comfort.

According to Tupou Kautoke, Treasurer of SSVP Tonga, the impact of these repairs goes far beyond numbers:

“The joy of having a safe roof again—protection from the sun, the rain, and the cool nights—brings a deep sense of belonging. It reminds people that they matter and that they are loved.”

In Tongan culture, homes are not only for the immediate household. They become gathering places for children, grandchildren, and extended family. Although 15 individuals were the direct beneficiaries, many more will find security, comfort, and family unity in these restored houses.

The 13 Houses Campaign continues the legacy of St. Vincent de Paul – responding to homelessness with practical action and genuine concern for human dignity. In a country repeatedly tested by natural disasters, this project shows what can be achieved when compassion meets collaboration.

The project coordinator and president of SSVP Tonga, Tevita Moengangongo, expresses its heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed:

“We were inspired by Vincent’s 13 houses. He saw a need and acted. The challenges are global now, but the mission remains the same. Funds from the FHA Solidarity Fund provided the impetus and incentive to actively seek additional partners for this project. There were challenges and uncertainties along the way, but the momentum swings in our favor with a successful outcome through close collaboration by all partners and our careful management of the funds. Our team has taken pride in this project, and the successful outcome encourages us to continue to look for opportunities to give the poor a more humane shelter.

In keeping with our tradition of humility, we offer our sincere and profound gratitude to all who have supported this work.”