Home Connects us

The project “Home Connects Us” is built on the belief that the need for a safe and dignified home is universal and shared by all. However, many Roma families are still prevented from exercising this fundamental right due to persistent structural barriers.
The project addresses persistent discrimination and structural barriers that prevent Roma families from accessing their fundamental right to adequate and dignified housing.
In Slovakia, Roma families living in marginalized communities face antigypsyism, low trust from majority populations, and limited access to formal housing systems. Even when families actively work to improve their situation – for example through self-help housing construction – they often encounter resistance from municipalities and local communities, which limits their ability to obtain land or integrate into majority society.
These barriers are not only economic, but also social and institutional. Negative stereotypes, lack of inclusive approaches, and insufficient dialogue between Roma communities and decision-makers result in exclusion from housing opportunities and reinforce cycles of poverty.
The project responds to this gap by focusing on external factors that hinder inclusion. It aims to challenge discriminatory attitudes, strengthen understanding between communities, and create conditions in which Roma families can exercise their rights on an equal basis.

The project aims to strengthen the acceptance of inclusive housing solutions and improve the social and institutional conditions for Roma inclusion through advocacy, dialogue and communication activities.
The main activities include the organisation of two series of panel discussions bringing together Roma families, municipalities, local communities and experts. These discussions will create space for open dialogue, sharing experiences, and addressing barriers to integration.
The project will also implement a targeted advocacy campaign highlighting barriers Roma families face when trying to access legal housing, while promoting proven examples of successful self-help housing solutions. Authentic stories and evidence-based data will be used to influence public attitudes and decision-making.
Throughout the project, regular communication activities will be carried out via social media, presenting positive examples, progress of families, and key messages aimed at reducing stereotypes and increasing acceptance.
These activities will produce outputs such as organised public discussions, communication materials, campaign content, and increased visibility of successful inclusive housing practices.

The project aims to contribute to reducing discrimination in access to housing and to improving the acceptance of Roma families seeking legal and dignified housing.
Expected results include increased awareness and more positive attitudes among municipalities and the general public, strengthened dialogue between Roma communities and majority populations, and greater openness of local actors to inclusive housing solutions.
Roma families involved in the project will have a stronger voice and visibility, enabling them to present themselves as active agents of change rather than passive beneficiaries. Their experiences will serve as evidence that inclusive housing solutions are feasible and sustainable.
The main beneficiaries are Roma families participating in the programme, particularly those currently facing barriers to accessing housing. Indirect beneficiaries include municipalities, local communities and the wider public, who will benefit from improved social cohesion, reduced prejudice and better-informed decision-making.