Maslow’s Psychological Theory

Housing, also referred to as, shelter, refers to the construction and assigned usage of houses or buildings individually or collectively, for the purpose of shelter. Housing is a basic human need, and it plays a critical role in shaping the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities.

• Understanding the impact of housing, how would we then describe not just its impact but importance in the life of an individual, family or community. Referencing Maslow’s psychological theory, shelter is essential for filling subsequent needs. Without shelter (and other things like food, oxygen, and drink), it is difficult, bordering on impossible, to fill the needs stacked higher to the top of the pyramid, such as:
  -Health
  -Personal security
  -Employment
  -Friendship
  -Intimacy
  -Sense of community
  -Social acceptance
  -Respect
  -Self-esteem and lastly, self-actualization, which, according to Maslow, is the ultimate goal.
  
  

With that being understood, one takes a whole new perspective to the significance of housing to many and in particular the noticeable percentage of our unconditional cash transfer beneficiaries.
Engaging and hearing from the project beneficiaries, we regard that their main investments range from housing, food, farming and education.
The beneficiaries not only view housing as a long-term investment but a stepping stone to other intangible needs as mentioned prior like self-esteem, social acceptance and overall Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS).

Sources:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Housing
invisiblepeople.tv (Cynthia Griffith)