Jet Li, Habitat to build houses in China

CHIANG MAI, Thailand, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- Film star Jet Li is teaming with Habitat for Humanity to build and repair houses in China in 2010-11, the organization announced Tuesday.

Li, through his One Foundation, and Habitat for Humanity have signed an agreement to work together in China's earthquake-torn Sichuan province in 2010 and in China's Yunnan, Guizhou and Guangxi provinces in 2011.

In addition to building and repairing homes, the group said it also will work to meet other community needs in partnership with low-income earners in the provinces.

"I am looking forward to working with Habitat for Humanity volunteers to help build and repair houses in China," Li said in a statement. "Together we will help people still recovering from the 2008 Sichuan earthquake and assist in building stronger communities."

"We are grateful to Jet Li and the One Foundation for working with Habitat for Humanity to improve the lives of low-income earners," said Jonathan Reckford, chief executive officer of Habitat for Humanity International. "Jet will help not only build and repair houses, but also raise awareness about the need for decent housing."