Before their "Casita Linda" families had little comfort or security. They lived in small structures made from scraps of wood, pieces of metal, stones, plastic and other cast-off materials with little protection from the elements. Many children had no bed or light for doing their homework. After helping to build their new home, the family has a solid roof and sturdy walls. They are healthier because of improved sanitation and a warm, dry place to sleep.
Our target population is the most impoverished families of San Miguel. Although they own their land (one of our requirements), they are essentially homeless, living in the worst living conditions imaginable. We have an proven system for selecting the families that receive homes. For example, in order to protect the woman/mother of the family, if the land is not owned by the woman, the couple must be legally married. They must also provide proof that their children are attending school.
Casita Linda's mission is to create a dignified, safe and empowering environment that will provide a foundation of hope for families living in extreme poverty. Our specific method for achieving this mission is to build environmentally compatible, sustainable, low cost, and comfortable houses for these impoverished families. We are currently in the process of building our 89th house. We build one house at a time, which takes about 6 weeks at a cost of approximately $8,500.
Through building sustainable, safe housing for the families chosen, Casita Linda's impact on not only the family but the community is immeasurable. Children are less likely to become ill from outdoor elements, clean drinking water is available, sanitary meal and cooking preparation is attainable, and simple and basic possessions are kept safe and secure. When these families build and receive their new homes community pride spreads throughout the area we are building in.
