Guatemala City Dump Landslides

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For almost 30 years Potter’s House has been part of the garbage dump community in Guatemala City. Disaster struck the dump community last week when a massive slope of trash collapsed, devastating many of the poorest families in the area. We do not yet know the exact number of victims or know how long the garbage dump will be closed, but we do know that 4 people have died while 20 are still missing. This tragedy will also affect the daily income of about 1,000 people, lovingly referred to as Treasures, who scavenge the dump for a living.

Rescue workers carry the body of a garbage scavenger who was killed in a mudslide caused by heavy rain in the city's main trash dump in Guatemala City, Friday, June 20, 2008. Six people rummaging through the trash died in the mudslide, according to authorities. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)Over the next couple of weeks, Potter’s House is hoping to assist 50 families (250 people) who were most affected through the provision of bags of food as well as emotional and spiritual care.  We are creating a fund for these efforts and are in need of $5,000 to help cover these expenses, and invite you to participate with us with financial support and prayer during this time for those who are hurting.

If you feel led to help, please make a contribution at www.reel-life.org/donate or send donations to Reel Life International P.O. Box 661105, Birmingham, AL 35266. Please include “Guatemala City Dump Relief” in the comments section or subject line of a check. 100% of all donations will be used to support our field partners in these efforts.

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