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Guatemala

In October 2005, Hurricane Stan hit northern Central America with heavy rains and powerful winds, triggering floods and demolishing buildings in its path. An estimated 700 people were killed in Guatemala and 35,000 homes were destroyed. The loss of life and property and the devastation to the infrastructure were compounded by the fact that more than half (56%) of Guatemalans were already living in poverty.

Episcopal Relief & Development has been working with the Diocese of Guatemala on a comprehensive approach to development issues. Needs assessments were conducted throughout the country in 2007, and a development office was established to implement and monitor projects.

Responding to Disasters and Rebuilding Communities

• In the immediate wake of Hurricane Stan, Episcopal Relief & Development supplied funds to purchase food, water and blankets for families in 20 communities.

• After the disaster, the organization partnered with the Diocese of Guatemala to rebuild housing for 74 families in one of the affected communities. Nineteen new 425-square-foot, two-bedroom concrete homes were built and 55 roofs were repaired or replaced. 

• In 2009, the diocese started a leadership training program to identify key regional leaders, develop overall national training curricula and concentrate training on areas where capacity gaps were identified.