News: Blitz Build
On March 9th, Habitat for Humantiy El Salvador inaugurated the 2011 Lent Build. During this construction event, we will build 15 permanent homes for families living in the department of Ahuachapán. These houses are part of the "Strengthening the Getsemaní Community" Project, which is now in its second year. In addition to providing a total of 90 housing solutions, this holistic project includes the development and implementation of sustainable programs in community health, income generation, values education and community leadership.
Lent Build will last seven weeks — the six weeks of Lent and also Easter week — from March 7th until April 22nd. During this time, an estimated 625 national and international volunteers will work side-by-side with masons and partners families to build homes. They will help dig foundations, make cement, sift sand, move materials, paint houses, and spend time with the families.
We were blessed with the participation of many special guests during the Lent Build inauguration ceremony. Rafael Morán Orellana, mayor of Ahuachapán, gave a speech in which he highlighted the importance of working with Getsemaní to support their long-term development. A representative from Myers Park Presbyterian Church, Bruce McIntyre, talked about the profound solidarity between his church and the partner families. Habitat El Salvador's board President, Dr. Morena Chiquillo, took advantage of the opportunity to thank everybody who has helped make this project so successful.
