From November 10th to 12th, the Santa Clara Commune, near the Ecuadorian capital, Quito, witnessed a unique construction that not only brought a new home but also renewed hope for Sandra’s family—her husband Iván and their two children, Dana and Gerald. They had previously lived in challenging conditions, sharing a cramped space with ten other people. The house they resided in lacked basic amenities, with no bathroom or shower, forcing them to boil water for personal hygiene. This heartbreaking reality reflected the high poverty rates and lack of access to essential services in the area.
“The Raíz CAEMBA Foundation: intervened to change the course of the Lagla family’s life, in collaboration with the Niños de María Foundation and the Rotary Club of Cumbayá. ‘The Niños de María Foundation”, with firsthand knowledge of Sandra’s situation as she had studied in their school, took the initiative to ensure a more dignified future for this family. The Rotary Club of Cumbayá also joined, providing valuable support to make this noble cause a reality.
The construction of a thermal bamboo house took place over three days with the enthusiastic support of local volunteers, including groups like Rotaract Quito and Cumbayá. The result was more than just a home: it was a residence with a privileged view of Quito, a bathroom and shower, and separate rooms providing privacy and comfort.
Sandra Lagla expressed her happiness with these words: ‘I am so happy for this house, and even more for my daughter, who has always wanted a bathroom.’ The house delivery was a deeply emotional moment, especially when Iván, Sandra’s husband, tearfully shared that this new home meant the end of the humiliation they faced daily.
‘The Raíz CAEMBA Foundation’ aims to restore balance and empower these families through meaningful acts like this. Beyond the physical construction, a bridge is built towards a more promising future, where quality education and safe, sustainable housing go hand in hand to transform lives and entire communities.
