While we were in Guatemala, we visited with Oscar Mejía, a friend of the Larsens who they previously met through God's Child Project. Oscar is now working with another volunteer organization called From Houses to Homes, and because of our interest, he took us to Santa Maria de Jesus to show us what they are doing in that community.
During our visit, we met a family whose new home had been finished the day before. The old house had dirt floors and walls made of dried corn stalks. The new home is made of cinder block walls and concrete floors. There is also a concrete front step.
The Old House
The New Home
The Family and NeighborsThe family graciously showed us their old house so we could see what an average home is like for people in the area. They were very friendly and answered our questions and let us take pictures. The neighbors were very curious about us, and they came over to see who we were and what we were doing.
For more information about From Houses to Homes, you can visit their website. If you have questions about the program, you can use the contact form or the email address listed on the site.
2 comments:
What an amazing opportunity you had, Stacy. I long to visit Guatemala.
I just got done writing a brochure for a nonprofit organization called Maya Traditions. They help women weavers in the Lake Atitlan area sell their products in stores in the U.S. such as Global Exchange. I'm hoping to one day to get meet some of the women in person.
Enjoy your trip!
Hi Travel Betty,
The women we saw the day we visited the Houses to Homes site spoke very little Spanish, so Oscar translated for us. It is true, though, facial expressions and gestures go a long way!
The women who work in the markets know Spanish, and some English, so it would be easier to have a conversation with them.
Thank you for letting me know about Maya Traditions, I'll have to check it out.
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