During the last year, VivaKids has built two homes for needy families in the Dominican Republic.  Each time we build a home, we look for volunteers to help with the labor.  On each occasion, a young man named Manuel Mateo has volunteered more hours than anyone else.  In fact, for the last home building project, he designed the home and oversaw the complete construction, doing most of the work himself. He has never received any salary for his work on the homes.  In addition, his own home has been in disrepair for quite some time due to lack of resources.

Manual lives in a multi-family home totaling 6 members.  His mother runs the house, but Manuel is the primary source of income.  However, after losing his job as a welder several months ago, Manuel has spent most of his time volunteering and reaching out to others.

In addition to the six people living in the home, the Mateo house for years has been a safe refuge of sorts for any family member or friend in need.  It’s quite common for someone in need to spend the day, spend the night or stay for a month or two.   The Mateo family never hesitates to reach out to someone who needs a hand, and although they barely have the means to meet their own needs, they give graciously of what they have.  Upon completing the last home building project, Viva Kids decided that we would bless this special family by repairing their home.  Because of the severe condition, the best “repair job” was to tear down the old home and build them a new one.  Once again, Manuel has been there, working hard, only this time he is able to work on his very own home.  We’re excited about this opportunity to once again, make a difference in the lives of some special people who are also making a difference in the lives of others!