High Point University student Aleah Hayes (center) spent time interacting with community children during a recent alternative fall break trip to Guatemala. The eight students built stoves and donated clothes during their trip.
HIGH POINT, N.C., Oct. 24, 2019 – High Point University students engaged in service during a recent alternative fall break trip to Guatemala.
HPU students built 181 cooking stoves and constructed the bases for 28 additional stoves inside the homes of local families in four different communities. Their volunteerism within the community helped families avoid smoke inhalation and burns from using open flames in their homes to cook.
“Going to Guatemala during fall break was an amazing experience,” said Kylie Hennessey, an HPU senior. “The kindness the Guatemalan people showed us was overwhelming. This opportunity reminded me what is really important in life, how blessed I am and how new friendships can form anywhere.”
Before traveling to Guatemala, HPU students partnered with Oak Ridge United Methodist Church to collect clothing and other items needed by Guatemalan families. Through their efforts, 150 families received the donated items during the alternative fall break trip.
“I am beyond grateful that High Point University provided me with this amazing experience,” said Madison Ryan, an HPU junior. “I am so thankful for the opportunity to meet new friends and have new experiences.”
HPU students also donated water filtration systems to families in need of clean drinking water and coordinated various activities for local children.