"All sixteen neighbourhoods surrounding the dump have been affected by the rains. Four of the communities were damaged more seriously than the others.
"Many families lost their corrugated metal roofs, which allowed their meagre possessions to be soaked by the driving rain. One neighbourhood was partially flooded. As result of the rainy season, Treasures are becoming ill with respiratory, stomach and other diseases.
"Our Treasures were in a state of shock and panic, wondering if their relatives who were scavenging in the dump were dead or alive. They were also worried about their own safety and the safety of their families as the rain put their houses in danger.
"We have two more months of the rainy season still to go. Please continue praying for us, asking God's wisdom as we seek to be His hands and feet for His Treasures."
Background to the tragedy
In August, Guatemala City was hit by torrential rain storms for several days. This weakened the structure of the rubbish dump, which is piled into a ravine, and on which the community of scavengers, whom our partners serve, are at work daily.
On 29th August, there was a huge landslide as the rain-soaked rubbish gave way and plunged to the bottom of the ravine.
Around 20 people were soon confirmed dead, and many more were trapped under the avalanche of rubbish. Areas of housing around the dump were flooded, and at least one house collapsed.
Casa del Alfarero staff are mobilized to help all the families affected. Please pray and assist financially if you can.
