An update on the earthquakes in Guatemala
On Tuesday, Guatemala experienced two major earthquakes in the departments of Sacatepequez and Escuintla. Both epicenters were outside of Antigua, but the earthquakes and aftershocks could be felt in Antigua and the surrounding villages. The aftershocks continued for several days and, though much less intense and less often, are still occurring as part of what is being called a “seismic swarm.”
Santa Maria de Jesus in Sacatepequez sustained the most damage. Two teachers from Escuela Integrada live in Santa Maria de Jesus and experienced several days without drinking water and electricity. The road to the town was impassable and supplies were severely limited.
At press time, electricity was restored and some homes had potable drinking water. Several churches are assisting in relief efforts, along with the Red Cross and the emergency services department of Guatemala.
Out of an abundance of caution, Escuela Integrada was closed for three days, with in-person classes set to resume on Monday. We had one Vision Trip in Guatemala during the major earthquake and one group that arrived on Saturday evening. All participants are safe and continuing their activities as permitted by the local government and safety standards.
Earthquakes are common in Guatemala because the country sits at the intersection of several fault lines and tectonic plates. The school did not have any damage, and the students and teachers are safe.
Please pray for the families most affected. As often happens with natural disasters in Guatemala, people who live in extreme poverty with insufficient housing materials are most at risk.
Where are they now? Get to know the Escuela Integrada graduates
Last fall, GRACES launched “A lifelong impact,” a video that tells the story of four students who graduated from Escuela Integrada. Oscar, Dahlia, Gabriela and Yonatan. Since the video launched, we’ve heard from several other alumni about what they are up to now.
We are excited to share some of their stories in our newsletter over the next few months.
This month, we interviewed Angel Morales López, 21, who is a 2018 graduate of Escuela Integrada. He lives in Playa El Paredon on the southwest side of Guatemala.
GRACES: Tell us a little bit about what you are up to now.
Angel: I am currently studying software engineering in college. I [also] work as a hostel manager, where my responsibilities include work supervision and reception shifts among other things.
GRACES: How did studying at Escuela Integrada help prepare you for your future?
Angel: The main thing that helped me at Escuela Integrada were the principles [taught] at the school. They shaped me into the person I am today, with confidence in my abilities, optimism, responsibility and boldness!
GRACES: What advice would you give other students at Escuela Integrada?
Angel: Lose the fear of failing in this life! Don’t be afraid to fall and get back up again.
Stay tuned for more from our alumni in the coming months!
Let us know if you’re coming! Supporters Gathering returns Nov. 3-7
GRACES’ Supporters Gathering will take place November 3-7 in Antigua, Guatemala. We invite all supporters, sponsors and friends to join us for this annual event where we will celebrate three graduation ceremonies (kindergarten, 6th and 9th grade), engage in lively discussions about the organization and participate in home visits and cultural activities.
The total trip cost and additional details are coming soon. To be the first to find out or if you already know you are coming, please fill out the Supporters Gathering Interest Form.
Ready to book your flights? We recommend arriving in time for dinner on Monday, Nov. 3 and departing on Friday, Nov. 7, midday or later.
It’s a fantastic time to meet other supporters and share in the joy of the students’ academic accomplishments. We hope you will consider joining us this November!