It was another absolutely glorious day in Guatemala, especially for a volcano climb. At this moment, the other members of the group are all tucked in and sound asleep - atop volcano pacaya. Instead of climbing, I took a taxi out to Comon Hope, then hoped into one of their vans along with a social worker and an interpreter. I had the privilege of visiting with two sponsored children and their families. One family lives in Santa Catarina, a bario on the south side of Antigua. The good news was that they have only one payment left on their home, built by construcasa - a European-based organization that partners with Common Hope. The bad news was that coffe picking season is coming to an end. The father works year-round on the finca, but the mother works picking coffee. They have so very little - no chairs for us to sit on, only 3 tiny wooden stools and a small wooden bench. The second family lives in San Pedro. Their story is very sad. They do not own the tiny piece of land that they live on - no electricity or running water in this neighborhood. Last year, the father of the family died, but they are very faith-filled and doing well. The mother does work, earning $182 per month. She supports her parents and 4 children, so requires much help. (Kathy and Sally, I can't wait to give you more detailed updates!). I was unable to visit New Hope, the community on the northeast side of Guatemala City, where Marvin (my sponsored child) and Geissel (the girl that our school sponsors) live. Instead, I left gifts, which will be delivered on Tuesday, when their social worker will visit the community. The plan is to skype with both of them this coming week. Can't wait! Signing off. Details of the volcano climb to follow!
Ann Christy
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