GREENVILLE — For the average American, it is difficult to imagine a life in which the city dump is both your home and place of employment. The garbage, the smell, and the filth are outside our realm of understanding. And yet these living conditions are reality for over 10,000 people who live and work in and around the Guatemala City dump. Even in their own country, these impoverished citizens are outcasts. They are referred to as “scavengers,” devalued and treated as less than human. Their situation is dire as they live and work in dangerous and unsanitary conditions.
But there is hope.
Destination Known, a ministry of EUM Church in Greenville, has partnered with Potter’s House Association International to build 14 homes for families living in this area and would like to continue to build more. In 2014 and 2015, Destination Known built a total of five homes; however, this is becoming increasingly difficult due to the increased cost of building supplies.
Destination Known is hosting a New Year’s Eve Gala on Dec. 31 that will be held at Romer’s Catering in Greenville beginning at 8 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres, dinner, dancing and a live auction. This is an alcohol-free event with 100 percent of the proceeds to be used to build homes for families living in a shanty community around the Guatemala City garbage dump.
Tickets are on sale now. The cost is $50 per person or $85 per couple. Reserved seating is also available for $350 for a table of eight. Tickets may be purchased at EUM Church, A&B Coffee and Cakes, Dave Knapp Ford Lincoln, and Romer’s Catering.
People who are unable to attend but would like to make a donation, should make the check payable to EUM Church and mail to EUM Church, 111 Devor St., Greenville, OH 45331, Attn: Cliff Rapier, and put “Guatemala Missions” in the memo line. For more information about the New Year’s Eve Gala, visit www.eumchurch.org or contact Cliff Rapier at 937-548-3211 ext. 212, or [email protected]. Also, follow EUM’s Facebook page and watch for continual updates on the auction items.
