A year ago, Rosalina Hernandez and Juan Gutierrez were living in a tiny rundown shack, along with their daughter, son, daughter-in-law and grandchild. “Life was so difficult for us,” says Rosalina. “When it rained, everything would get wet and it would take up to five days for the house to dry out. This new house is such a blessing.”
The house is also a wonderful improvement for Rosalina’s 4-year-old granddaughter, Mariela. Finally, the young child has a safe, clean space in which to play. “Blessed is God for helping our dreams come true,” says Rosalina. “The kids all play together, and the neighbors are friendly.”
Another family to receive a new home was Miguel Jimenez and his wife, Mirna Perez, and their nine children. The family had been living in a makeshift compound built of logs, sticks, scrap metal and plastic tarps. There was no latrine, and they fetched their water from a river-fed water station located about a mile away. The family is giving glory to God for the blessing in their life that was once unimaginable.
“I am full of happiness for my children!” Mirna exclaims. “No longer do they sleep in a crowded place. Now we are in a very spacious one! And my older children are also happy for what God has sent through you. We thank you very much; we are very grateful.”
Loving gestures and generous gifts from Cross Catholic Outreach’s donors are helping restore hope and dignity to these families and 18 others who once lived in makeshift shacks. These poor families are on a path to a brighter future — and their relationship with Christ has been strengthened.
Related: Addressing Poverty in Guatemala