Rebuild Homes in Guatemala after Volcano Disaster

Since our last update just three months ago, Habitat Guatemala has made exciting progress with our Fuego Volcano response. Through our efforts, we have continued to support displaced families living with host families, providing water filters and home improvements to make living conditions healthier and more comfortable. In 25 host homes, our team has worked to expand living spaces, create walls to separate rooms, and fix leaky roofs.

In late September, Habitat Guatemala broke ground on the first set of permanent homes for 16 high-need families who lost everything in the eruption. Local and international volunteers have participated throughout the construction process – mixing cement, laying concrete blocks, and making rebar columns – which has lowered costs and accelerated build time. The beneficiary families have also been active throughout the construction, as part of the Habitat principle of “sweat equity”.

On December 12th, the first 16 homes will be inaugurated in the residences of Valle de Las Flores in Escuintla. With these homes, 16 families will be able to spend the holidays in their safe new space, just six months after a tragedy that dramatically altered their lives. To support families as they transition into their new homes, we have provided different workshops on community harmony, financial education, and disaster response.

The second set of 13 homes are currently under construction, and will be complete in early 2019. In addition, 7 more lots have been purchased for construction next year. Habitat Guatemala is grateful for the support our response efforts have received, and we hope to continue providing additional families with permanent housing solutions as funding allows.

Thank you for allowing families to celebrate the holidays under a new roof!