Gateway Resident Goes to Guatemala to Help Build Houses. "Touched" By Children

Fort Myers, FL

After running this story yesterday many of you have asked for additional information. You can contact Evan directly via e-mail Evan Tullos. Also
visit  deepstreamguatemala.com for more information including a paypal link for donations. You can also visit the home building ministry (12x12 love project) is at 1212loveproject.org.




How long were you there for and what were you doing there?

This trip was 5 days. The typical trip is 3-7 days with 5 being the average based on the others that make the trip a few times a year. Each trip is unique - ranges from home construction for people living on dirt floors with cornstalk walls, to feeding centers for starving children, to providing medicine to people that are dying from what we would consider "routine" illnesses. Basically, we provide for the physical needs of people who live in abject poverty - making 1-2 dollars per day, for those who are fortunate enough to have work.

Tell us about your friend and what he’s doing.

My friend moved his wife and three children to live in Guatemala on a permanent basis. What you may find interesting is that he was a rising star in NFL operations working for several years with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He was considered to be one of the youngest in the NFL serving in this executive role. His future was very bright and he resigned at 31 years old to pursue his true life mission.

Explain a normal house in the area you were visiting?

The Mayan culture has been plagued by poverty for centuries and has instilled in the minds of men that they cannot break the cycle of their fathers. In the villages, it is a huge blessing to have running water and electricity. Most homes are one room, with a wood burning stove that creates smoke that is inhaled causing lung damage. Most families share a single bed and some sleep on the floor on mats or gunny sacks. I saw families ranging from 6-12 people living in these one room homes.

Compare Guatemala to the US?

Guatemala is a physically beautiful country with incredible views of nature, volcanoes, mountains, etc. Unfortunately, crime is rampant in the cities - typically financially motivated - human trafficking, hostages for money, prostitution, etc. But in the poor villages, it is more safe. However, alcoholism is extremely common, as is physical abuse of wives and children. Government seems to be very unstable and corrupt. As you know, we have a much safer and blessed situation here in the US.

What was the biggest surprise to you?

The biggest surprise for me has been the joy of the children. They have nothing and yet they play, have infectious smiles and are simply happy.

hat will you remember forever?

The big hearted kindness and thankfulness of the children and families. The difference they made in my life.

Will you go again?
Absolutely! Because I have made a connection with these wonderful people and have a desire to serve.

Contact Evan directly at evan.tullos@baml.com