Maria Santana Alvarado de Mejia

38 years old / Homeowner

María is a hardworking woman who looks after her home. She takes care of the daily household responsibilities and also works in other homes doing domestic chores. She will live in the new house with her husband and their three children (only one was home during the interview).

Gerber Fredys Mejía Vigil

54 years old / María’s husband / Maria’s husband

Gerber is a hardworking man dedicated to providing for his family. He used to work in the fields planting corn and beans, but two years ago he was diagnosed with kidney failure, and his doctors advised him to stop doing fieldwork. They have been living together as a couple for 19 years.

Cristian Eliseo Mejía Alvarado

14 years old / Student /  María’s son

He is a very hardworking boy who is in eighth grade at school. He really enjoys playing soccer with his classmates. He also helps his parents with the necessary tasks to support them.


The house was built 19 years ago using mud, bahareque, and pieces of metal sheets. During the rainy season, they suffer greatly from roof leaks due to the deterioration of the walls and roof, and they hope to obtain a new home where they can feel safe.