When the Storm Comes

The Quel Patzan family moved to Mexico from Guatemala 7 years ago. They came here to establish a better life for their family, and they have been fighting to make that happen ever since. After moving to Tijuana they were able to secure the purchase of land, but had no money left to build a proper structure. Throughout all of the difficulties there was a ray of hope in March 2020 when they were told they were going to be receiving a Home of Hope. A concrete slab was poured and the wood was delivered, it was really happening! Then, almost as if it was a perfect storm, a week later due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we were forced to shut down our building process completely for a time. So close to finally having a warm and dry home for them and their 5 kids, Julion and Maria Luisa were forced to wait. For months, the concrete slab stood in front of their haphazard shelter, as a reminder of what almost was.

Finally, almost an entire year later, we were able to build their home this past January, but it was not without difficulties. A wild storm rolled into Tijuana the first day of the build, bringing rain, extreme wind and even hail! Through it all the team and the family persevered and the house was finished. Luisa was strong, optimistic and so thankful to be receiving a home. During the dedication, her and her eldest daughter wept as they thanked God for this beautiful gift. Throughout all the storms and the waiting, the Quel Patzan family remained strong as they held onto hope.

New Year, in Remembrance

As we look forward to the new year, new possibilities and of course many more families receiving homes this year, my family and I started out with a time of remembrance. We built a Home of Hope in honor of my late and beloved father James Michael Lambert who passed away in 2015.

Three generations came together as my siblings came to join us in Mexico with their children and grandchildren to make a difference for a beautiful family.  Elda is a single mother taking care of her three daughters. Her dad Mario lives with her and helps take care of the girls. Watching him interact and play with his granddaughters was special as I remembered my dad and the times he shared with my three daughters. 

As I look back through the years, I am amazed at the beautiful impact these homes have had not only on the families receiving but on each participant, staff and donor. This time was no different and it was especially meaningful to serve alongside my family as we honored my father.  It was a tearful moment as I watched my mom hand the keys at the dedication ceremony. My dad, James, a carpet layer all his life, would have enjoyed seeing the new carport squares we put into the two bedrooms. He spent his life cheering on his eight children and investing in their success and now his legacy lives on as it grants that to these three beautiful girls. `