This past week I had the opportunity to work with a team of all women from Canada. I was excited to be able to speak english and be around other women.
The week began with us building six houses in one of the poor communities close to San Antonio. Many of the families were too poor to own land. The government had given many them land but very far from the center of the community.
– A girl who received a new house –
We were able to spend time asking the families about their lives, children, and family. They told us that their houses before were very poorly made and many times rain would leak through the roof and many of them would get sick. Receiving this house gave them a sense of security and hope. Their old houses were made out of mud and sticks and someone would always have to stay home to make sure no one stole from them. But with these news houses made out of metal, they could lock the door and have peace.
– Father and son with their new house behind them –
I was expecting to get my hands dirty and use a hammer or screwdriver. However, tons of people from the community showed up to help. I was surprised to see so many people wanting to help their neighbor. Later I found out that many of the people help in order to one day receive a house of their own. The father in the picture above was helping build houses for 2 years before his family was chosen.
– People from the community ready to help –
The Canadians were very excited to spend time with the children and women. They brought games and activities to do with the people. I ended up being one of their translators during the week. I guess it was a compliment to be asked to translate…it means my spanish is good enough! I also spent some time learning how to make tortillas.
– Making tortillas with some of the women –
– One of the boys who received a new house –
On Thursday we went to a community called Tecaluca and held a clothing store. We hauled thousands of pieces of clothing and set up tables. Each family paid one dollar to enter the store and each member of their family could choose one outfit. The money received will go towards providing transportation to church for people in the community. I think every one of the Canadian ladies will go home remembering the spanish words for skirt, shirt, pants, and dress. The best part of my day was helping a grandma find a skirt and matching top. She smiled so big and she looked beautiful.
– Canadians spending time with the families –
– A mother and her child that received a new house –
Overall it was a pretty exhausting but amazing week. I was able to serve these people in a different way. Also, I was able to serve the Canadian team by translating. I was excited to be used and make a difference.
