Building Homes and Schools

In many developing countries inadequate housing is a major problem. Typical homes have dirt floors and are made of cornstalks, scrap metal, and cardboard. Most OWH short term missions teams have participated in the construction of small, two room homes made with waterproof sheetrock and concrete foundations. OWH's home building activities have been done in collaboration with the Arms of Jesus For Children's Mission in Antigua, Guatemala. Homes are prefabricated and can be constructed in about four hours. The director of Arms of Jesus reports that there is an immediate improvement in the health of the children when they have the opportunity to sleep in a cleaner, less damp environment. These homes can be provided at a cost of $1000.

OWH holds the belief that although it is crucial to provide for the immediate needs of the poor, it is equally important to equip them to provide for themselves. Lack of education is the only thing standing between a future of poverty and success for many children. Therefore, education is a priority of Outreach for World Hope. In 2003 OWH donated $38,000 to Arms of Jesus for Children's Mission to make possible the purchase of the rented land on which the Christian school was located. This purchase ensured the future of the school at its present location and opened the door for expansion. Many OWH teams have participated in the construction of expansion projects to accommodate the growth of the school and the advancement of the students.