We’ve had sub-zero temperatures and so much snow here in Maine lately. Isn’t it awesome to be able to stay cozy at home while winter does its worst? We want everyone to have affordable shelter from the elements, and that’s why Mexicali Blues is still sending 100% of the proceeds of our Guatemalan beaded bracelets to the Guatemala Housing Alliance (GHA). This wonderful organization is building homes—and helping villagers build skills—that will keep families safe, secure and self-sufficient all year long.
In the poverty-stricken villages on the shores of Lago de Atitlán, many families live in small, leaky dwellings fashioned from whatever they can find, like plastic sheeting and stalks of cane or corn. GHA is changing that one home at a time. Maine native Nancy Wynne, a co-founder of GHA, shared photos of the home GHA recently built for Candeleria and her daughter, Clara. They shared a cramped and leaking dwelling with six other members of their extended family, many of whom had to sleep on the hard dirt floor. GHA provided Candelaria and Clara with more than just a home. They even have the space to garden and keep chickens! They have security, stability, hope and pride. And like all recipients of GHA housing, they are helping to build homes for others in their village as well.
GHA is building its 28th house right now, in the Bajareque style. This type of homebuilding is more sustainable and breathable—and beautiful. Each sturdy and modest house blends in with its natural surroundings thanks to materials like bamboo or cypress, pine needles, adobe and local mud. Every bracelet you buy helps to complete this home and change the lives of the family who will live in it.
It feels amazing to see these images and know we played a part in keeping these families safe and warm during the cold rains of winter! Have you bought your beaded bracelet yet? These gorgeous cuffs are handwoven by hardworking single mothers in Pasajquim. They are the look-good and feel-good accessory of the season, because each one you buy brings shelter, education and opportunity to Guatemala.
GET YOUR GUATEMALAN BEADED BRACELET RIGHT HERE.
The post MEXICALI WORLD OF GOODS: WE JUST CHECKED IN WITH THE GUATEMALA HOUSING ALLIANCE. CHECK OUT HOW MUCH GOOD YOUR BEADED BRACELETS CAN DO! appeared first on Mexicali Blues Blog.
