Over 550 Families in the majestic mountain communities surrounding the city of Ataco, El Salvador, whose only means of livelihood are working the coffee plantations when the beans are in harvest. Their day to day existence was shaped by the money that was perennially tight. The challenges of living with tin roof top houses, mud floors, no running water or electricity, and having to rely on the land to feed them until harvest. They were elated to receive a month's supply of non-perishable foods, warm blankets, sweaters, and basic hygiene essentials. The overwhelming love shone through all their hardship with the extreme excitement for their children receiving shoes, jackets, and the challenges to hit the piñatas filled with candy. IHSCA Student Volunteer Jake said, ``We don't appreciate the simple things that we have that poor kids suffer without, the happiness on their little faces was so overpowering."
Our IHSCA students packed over 500+ food packages along with hygiene kits that were delivered to the remote mountain communities. We also took a trip to visit a local orphanage to give out toys and our basic essentials to the kids. This experience opened up our student's horizons to provide further enlightenment and growth. They were rewarded with gratitude, friendship, hospitality, and breathtaking views of the coast and mountains. The experience was an embodiment of who we are as a school! Until the next trip!