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Building a Home for Monica and Her Children in Lima, Peru

By: Shelby Leith, Sep 11, 2025 8:00:00 AM
Journey, Infrastructure

The story of Monica, a single mother of three girls in the 7 de Junio settlement of Villa María del Triunfo, Lima, Peru, highlights the urgent need for safe housing. For years, Monica worked long hours at a restaurant, often returning home at 1 a.m., only to find her children gathered around a single candle in their fragile shelter. Rain leaked through the roof, and there was no sense of security or peace of mind.

building a home

When we visited her community one evening, a neighbor invited us to see her home. The living conditions were shocking, with crumbling walls, a leaking roof, and little protection from the elements. It was clear that immediate support was necessary. With just one week to act, our team began building a home that could provide Monica and her children the safety they deserved.

Rebuilding With Purpose

Over the following days, volunteers and community members came together to replace the roof and strengthen the structure. A new bunk bed with mattresses was brought in so her daughters could finally sleep comfortably. We also added a table, chairs, and other essentials to help transform the house into a space of dignity and stability.

This project wasn’t about handouts. It was about low-income housing construction that empowers families to take control of their future. By working side by side with Monica, the project restored more than just a home. It restored pride, comfort, and hope.

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The Power of Community Support

Stories like Monica’s remind us that when we help low-income families, the impact goes beyond shelter. A stable home is the foundation for better education, health, and future opportunities for children. It’s about breaking cycles of poverty and giving families a chance to thrive.

This approach aligns with Safe Homes Movement’s mission: sustainable, community-led solutions that address both immediate housing needs and long-term well-being. By investing in housing projects, we’re not just building walls and roofs. We’re building resilience and dignity.

For more on how housing transforms lives, explore how safe housing prevents domestic violence or learn about the role of safe housing in the cycle of poverty.

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Building a Home, Building a Future

Every successful project proves that change is possible when communities unite. Monica’s daughters can now sleep soundly, study with proper lighting, and live in a space they are proud to call home. That is the true power of building a home. It creates security today and hope for tomorrow.

If you want to join efforts like these, check out construction volunteer opportunities or learn how to join a humanitarian trip abroad.

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Safe Homes Movement – Paving the Way for Housing Solutions

Together, we are proving that safe housing can transform lives.

Want to learn more? Download the Safe Homes Movement brochure. If you’re ready to support the work long-term, consider becoming a monthly donor. Every bit counts.

Topics
  • Infrastructure
  • volunteers
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  • Journey
  • Uncategorized
  • volunteer abroad
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  • barriers to access
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