We are overjoyed by the recent advances we have made at The House Project that reflect our unwavering commitment to the most invisible communities, all thanks to the support that many of you provide.
Red House
In Colombia, we visit the Kawuamana school every month, where 28 children are in semi-boarding school. We bring them healthy food; we have helped to repair their dining room and we carry out various activities with them.
In our two most recent visits to the Colombian Alta Guajira, the children's joy was contagious. Together, we rescued the tradition of making their own clay and water dolls, derived from the traditional Wayunkerras.
Wayunkerras are more than dolls made by indigenous Wayuu girls; they are symbols of strength, courage and resilience. They have a deep history.
Many years ago in this desert area, grandmothers would take their granddaughters to the jagueyes (water wells in the desert) after walking long distances with heavy loads. While the grandmothers washed the family's clothes for hours in the sun, the girls played with wet mud, creating figures that dried in the sun. Playing, the girls found joy even in the most difficult conditions. The girls kept their Wayunkerras as their main toy. These dolls represent the history of life and courage of the Wayuu people, especially their women, who, despite the adversities, have moved forward.
Blue House
A little further north, in the Dominican Republic, an area called El Palito, in the community of Los Robalos in Samaná, has pleasantly surprised us. In just two months in just one location, they have collected and properly separated 100 kilos of plastics. The training we have done in the community and in the schools in the area is paying off.
Collecting and separating plastics is crucial. Not only because of the hundreds or thousands of kilos that can be collected, but also because of the awareness of the use of these elements and the determined participation of the community. These behavioral changes, which require time, patience and perseverance, fill us with enthusiasm. Working hand in hand with the community and seeing tangible results that last in their daily lives is an immense satisfaction. These are small actions that, if we all did them, could prevent many natural disasters caused by environmental damage.
To complete the wonderful news, we were able to donate four containers for the collection of these plastics, thanks to the German cooperation GIZ.
If you want to know more about The House Project or share something with us, please write to contacto@thehouseproject.foundation.
Soon we hope to continue telling you more good news.
Carolina Plata
Project Manager
The House Project Foundation
