Las Cajas

Nearly a hundred people are confirmed dead and today, two weeks after the tragedy, close to eight hundred people remain missing and are presumed dead. Many of those who survived in Panabaj lost everything – clothing, pots and pans, farm tools, beds and other furniture, and food supplies. The Panabaj community was very poor before the tragedy. Now, they face an even tougher struggle. Clean water, safe food, health care, education, and homes are all in short supply.

Communities throughout the Santiago, Atitlán region are in the midst of recovery. There are thousands of people in shelters. Many families have taken in ten, twelve, or twenty friends, relatives, and neighbors.
Sadness, grief, and a sense of trauma from the massive loss are prevalent. At the same time, one notes the grace and sense of resiliency within the people. Both realities exist. There is a deep sense of commitment to move forward and support each other. There is uncertainty and tragedy. There is hope and beauty.