Women rebuilding Guerrero/Hurricane Otis

The organizations participating in Women Rebuilding Guerrero have made significant progress in their efforts, aiming to benefit over 4,500 people across 17 municipalities in Guerrero. Faced with persistent challenges from the devastation caused by Hurricanes Otis and John, along with the effects of climate change and violence, their actions have focused on healing, economic recovery, risk management, and community reconstruction.

Among the most notable activities are health caravans in communities with limited access to medical services, the establishment of backyard gardens and chicken coops, and the creation of community maps to identify risks and safe zones. “When Hurricane Otis hit, a pipe got clogged, and my house flooded. We organized as neighbors to solve it because we couldn’t wait for the government to act. The losses are ours,” shared a member of Creadoras de Sueños.

Capacity-building is central for these organizations, which is why we will collaborate with MOOTS, Agua y Vida, and Comaletzin to guide this collective process. Each of these organizations brings extensive experience in areas such as risk management from a feminist perspective, fostering horizontal leadership, and equipping groups with tools to enhance their internal operations. These efforts aim not only to prevent disasters but also to promote sustainable and supportive practices. “Every workshop we attend helps us develop strategies that transform our communities. However, we often face challenges at home; some families see our participation as a threat,” expressed an activist of the Women Rebuilding Guerrero program.

The impact of their actions is also evident in how they have begun responding to emergencies. “After the hurricane, we lost everything. It took me weeks to clear the mud from my house, and I didn’t receive any support because I didn’t have property deeds. So, I joined other women to fight for our right to decent housing,” shared a member of Cooperativa Memoria de las Abuelas. Additionally, in the economic sphere, the organizations have organized workshops on financial alphabetization, skills training, and productive activities rooted in the principles of a solidarity economy.

Finally, in February 2025, Fondo Semillas will host the first in-person meeting in Acapulco, Guerrero. Originally postponed due to Hurricane John, this event will be a crucial opportunity to coordinate efforts, exchange knowledge, and reinforce organizational alliances. “The support network we’ve built together is essential. It provides us with safe spaces and allows us to face challenges with greater resilience,” explains a member of Red de Mujeres Indígenas y Afromexicanas.

All these efforts would not be possible without your help. Guerrero's recovery is moving forward, but much remains to be done. Thank you for being part of this community. We will inform you soon about our first meeting.