Help Build a Safe Home for Rosa and Jonatan

As an expat living in Guatemala, I often share the beauty and vibrant culture of this amazing country. But there’s another side to life here that I want to share—one that’s less talked about but deeply important.

Meet Rosa (30) and her son Jonatan (11). They live in rural Sololá, Guatemala, and are facing challenges that no family should have to endure.

Last week, an old friend from a neighboring messaged me asking for help for Rosa and Jonatan, knowing that I have worked previously with community projects locally here. I am promptly answering his call for help with this GoFundMe

Rosa, pictured on the far left with her son second from the left, has been a widow for over 10 years. She works tirelessly as a seamstress, earning just $1 a day to provide for her family. Despite her hard work, she and Jonatan live in extreme poverty, a reality shared by millions of Guatemalans.

For their entire lives, Rosa and Jonatan have lived in a small, overcrowded home with six other family members. The house is only 600 square feet, with two rooms and three shared beds. It’s time to give Rosa and Jonatan a space of their own—a home that provides safety, dignity, and hope for a brighter future.

The Goal

We are raising funds to build Rosa and Jonatan a 300-square-foot home on the same property as their current family home. The house will be modest yet sturdy, with concrete walls, a secure roof, and room to grow. It will give them the independence and privacy they’ve never had.

Your Contribution Will Cover:

Concrete bricks

Roofing materials

Two beds and essential furnishings

Up to three windows and one door

A water filtration system for the family (Currently, they have to boil all of their water to drink safely)

A new and more modern kitchen system that will allow them to avoid using open flame for their meals

Locally sourced labor

How You Can Help

Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to giving Rosa and Jonatan a safe place to call home. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this campaign is just as impactful. Please spread the word on social media and among your friends—it’s free to share and could make all the difference.

Why Locally Sourced Labor Matters

By hiring local workers, we not only ensure quality construction but also provide much-needed jobs to the community. This approach empowers the people of Sololá and supports the local economy, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.

Rosa and Jonatan

Rosa serving me and my girlfriend coffee during our visit

The location we plan to construct the 13x22ft house

The exterior area of the current house

This is how the family cooks, on an open fire in a shack