Rebuild Homes in Guatemala after Volcano Disaster

During this spring, Habitat for Humanity Guatemala has made continued progress with our Fuego Volcano Response project, inaugurating 21 more homes for families affected by the disaster of last June. As each home of this phase went up, the first set of 16 partner families has continued to put down roots in Valle de las Flores and eagerly anticipate their new neighbors, many of whom they knew from their former communities. The general sentiment of the families is that of rebirth and reestablished tranquility that their new homes and community allow them to achieve.

In April, 21 more families were formally integrated into Valle de las Flores, as Habitat Guatemala delivered the keys to their new homes. As with the first 16 families, these individuals are originally from the hardest hit communities of San Miguel Los Lotes and Aldea El Rodeo. Some were living with host families prior to their relocation to Valle de las Flores, while others were living in the temporary transitional shelters set up by the government. In most cases, families lost all of their belongings, many loved ones, and their employment as a result of the disaster.

Since receiving their homes, these families have begun to integrate as neighbors and members of the community. Their response has been that of gratitude, for both Habitat Guatemala and the donors who have made it possible. They perceive the project as an opportunity to take back their peace of mind and to begin their lives anew.

Over the next few weeks, the final four homes of the project will be completed and delivered to their respective partner families. In the year following the tragedy, through the incredible support of donors, Habitat Guatemala has been able to build homes for 41 families who lost everything in the tragic eruption last June. This spring, we witness a fresh beginning for hundreds of Guatemalans who now have a safe roof over their heads and can move forward with strength and stability.