Day of Construction

Last night, Michael and I were discussing plans for the next day when an American family asked if we could help them build a house in the morning. They told us that a mother and two children in Piura needed a home and that a house could be built in a day. We had interviews scheduled in the morning, but Michael and I were so excited about the idea that we convinced Jessica to let us join the construction team.

I have built houses before with Habitat for Humanity, but the house we built today was unlike anything I have seen in my life. When Michael and I were dropped off at the village, we expected to find a construction site. Instead, we found a pile of sand with bamboo poles, metal scraps and wires. With the help of a few neighbors, we constructed the house in less than five hours. Michael and I spoke with the single mother who would live in the house, and I couldn't stop playing with her two adorable children.

Today was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I still can't believe that a family is sleeping under a roof tonight because we decided to help out in the morning. I was amazed by the feelings of hope and community shared by these families despite their hardships and difficult living conditions, and I was touched by the willingness of neighbors to help each other construct a better life. I have been in Peru for only three days, but my experiences have already taught me so much about the people and the culture. Jessica, Michael and I are exhausted from interviewing families and helping in the community, and we plan on leaving in the morning for a beach in Mancora. We will return in three days, and I can't wait to reach out to the many other wonderful families in Piura!