A Home Built on Kindness

Home is more than just a place to live. It is a space where people feel safe, supported, and connected. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity, with help from partners such as BMO, work to give families this sense of belonging by building homes and strengthening communities. Their work shows that everyone deserves a place where they can grow and feel included. I learned about the meaning of home in many different ways. One important experience was visiting a school for blind orphans in India. When my family and I walked in, the first thing I noticed was the heat. The classrooms had no fans or cooling systems, and the students had to learn in that temperature every day. I imagined how hard it must be to concentrate, and it made me want to help. Donating an air conditioner felt like the right thing to do because it made their classroom cooler and more comfortable. That moment taught me that even a small action can make a big difference. I’ve also learned about community through local projects. In my neighbourhood, I helped support the creation of a new park (Hermitage Park) built by the Town of Ajax and KABOOM!. Seeing volunteers, families, and neighbours come together to create a fun and safe space for children showed me how powerful teamwork can be. Even though Habitat for Humanity didn’t build this park, the experience reminded me of the same values—people working together to make their community better. My mom’s workplace also donates to Habitat for Humanity, and knowing that her company supports families in need makes me proud. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that kindness and empathy can create real change. Whether it’s helping students in a hot classroom or supporting community projects, every action matters. When we care for one another, we help build a world where everyone has a place to belong.