Five branches of the Vincentian Family are collaborating to open a new project to help families who lost their homes after a volcanic eruption. 35 new homes will be built as part of the ‘Welcome Home Project’.

The Fuego volcano erupted last year, killing dozens and rendering many more homeless. This 13 Houses Campaign project in Alotenango provides a new start for 35 families, along with vocational training to ensure them a long-term future.

In the Vincentian spirit of listening to the poor, a group of the beneficiaries are advising on the construction so it meets their needs.

The project is a collaborative initiative of the local Vincentian Family Systemic Change committee. This comprises the DCs, CMs, AIC, VMY, and SSVP. They are partnering with an NGO and the local parish to realize the project, which will be under the legal tenure of the Vincentian Priests. Also, the UN through UNDP is collaborating with them. The group raised some of the funds needed themselves and received a grant from the 13 Houses Campaign Solidarity Fund to meet their budget.

We will continue to update you on the 13 Houses Campaign as it gathers pace, with 20 countries now planning projects. Please pray for our Vincentian brothers and sisters in Guatemala and the people they serve!

Do you want to get involved in the 13 Houses Campaign? Check our website to find out more about building a project or donating to the Solidarity Fund.

 

Download the article in pdf format.