Shanty towns are difficult to interpret. Here’s why. Getting off of the bus, you see poverty all around. Small shacks where families make do in one room homes without running water. At first, you feel sadness, hopelessness. But then you get the chance to really look around, past the dirt roads and poor living conditions. You see people working in the market, happy for another day of work. And children in their dirty little shoes, running with their friends, playing simple games in the street. Your perspective starts to change. You see happy people living their lives day to day; enjoying and appreciating the people they have around them.
The first half of my day in Villa El Salvador, I spent with a small bunch of two to five year olds in a small daycare. The building consisted of one large play area, two small rooms, and a restroom. At first the kids were a little scared of us but eventually they grabbed some toys and got comfortable. The children were so sweet and we had a lot of fun helping out with lunch and nap time.
After I had lunch, I met up with the other half of UNK students who were working on moving dirt and rocks in an effort to smooth the land where they will one build a school. It was hard work but also really fun because I saw how happy everyone from the shantytown was to have us there. I’m really glad I had this opportunity to help people who need and appreciate it.