April 23, 2008

Year 1, Volume 3: Rebuilding Santa Fe, one house at a time

Sharing the joy of the first house of Habitat Argentina

Hundreds of people came to the dedication of the first house of HFHA on Friday July 4th 2004, and many others who could not be present would have certainly loved to be there to celebrate with the Espinosa family, owners of the first house built by Habitat for Humanity in Argentina.

It was a beautiful day, cool in a typical South American autumn, but with a full sun that allowed us to enjoy the day outdoors. Early in the afternoon the sounds of the Police Music Band of the province called us to celebrate. Neighbours from near and far, friends from other regions of the province of Santa Fe such as Cañada de Gómez, plus many who had travelled from Luján and Buenos Aires, all came to help us celebrate..

We felt that the Lord was among us, as Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered together in my Name, there am I in the midst of them”. Three pastors reminded us of this in their prayers; a priest gave his message and we knew the glory of God in a moment that was unique for each of us. The Espinosa family all gave sincere thanks in emotional speeches. Our heartfelt applause was so great that it could possibly have been heard throughout Argentina!

HFHA leaders spoke of the helpful and encouraging attitude of those who provided water and electric energy, and from the neighbours who looked after the tools and building materials. And everyone recognised the tremendous efforts of the Espinosa family and of the volunteers that helped with the construction.

There were two more joyful moments – one when children from a “special school” planted a tree in front of the house and the other, when the school friends of the Espinosa children sent up multicolour balloons, which will fly where the wind takes them with a message that spoke of the importance of a decent house for a happy family,. It was very touching to see those 10 year olds, and their teachers, digging the ground and planting a tree, which will, in time, provide the Espinosa family with shadow and shelter and we pray that many families in need will receive the messages on the balloons!

Carlos Zaballa, Nacional Board of Directors

All those that want to add efforts to the project “Rebuilding Santa Fe, one house at a time”

:

Jorge Díaz, Local Coordinator - Tel.: +54 (0342) 455 9200 - santafe@hpha.org.ar

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