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Guatemala

Working With Children in Guatemala

For many children in Guatemala, poverty and violence are far too often common companions with homicide rates among the highest in the world outside of war zones. To protect children from the violence around them, we work with pastors, teachers, community leaders and the children themselves to raise awareness and implement strategies to help kids be safe and thrive.

More than half of Guatemala’s population live below the poverty line and one half of the children are malnourished. Along with income-supporting programs, we help parents cultivate diversified backyard vegetable gardens and learn how to maximize nutritional benefits in meal preparation. 

Your impact in Guatemala

Together, we’re making real change in the lives of children, families and communities. Just some of what was achieved with Canadian support in the past year:
Children and families are well nourished, protected from infection and disease and have access to essential health services.

 
  • We worked with local clinics and the Ministry of Health to provide vaccines and vitamins to vulnerable children in danger of disease and malnutrition.
  • 77 malnourished children were enrolled in nutritional programs and monitored to ensure they are growing healthy
  • 348 women were counselled on how to properly care for themselves and their babies during and after pregnancy
  • 275 children and adults learned about the importance of water safety, proper sanitation and hygiene to stay healthy
  • 63 health workers and volunteers were trained to provide quality health services, especially for women and children
  • 664 parents and caregivers learned about proper feeding practices and how to keep their children well nourished
*Results reported for projects in this country from October 2016 to September 2017
Children learn and develop their talents, young people are equipped for the future and families support children's education.

 
  • Through new preschool programs, young children learned skills needed to be successful in primary school, such as counting, knowing the alphabet and working with others
  • 1,116 children and youth are improving their learning through tutoring and extracurricular activities like clubs and camps
  • 196 teachers and volunteers learned child-friendly teaching methods to improve the quality of education for children
  • 423 children and youth were trained in essential life skills such as critical thinking, self-esteem and communication
  • 12 schools were renovated or furnished with educational materials to provide a better learning environment for students
  • 1,983 preschool children are developing vital language and motor skills, setting a solid foundation for their education
*Results reported for projects in this country from October 2016 to September 2017
Adults and youth acquire knowledge and skills, and gain access to resources, to help them increase their family income.

 
  • 22 young people received vocational, business and finance training, improving their opportunities to earn a steady income
  • 27 individuals are members of savings groups, helping families meet their financial needs and access small loans
  • 112 farmers received livestock, seeds or tools to improve productivity and better provide for their children and families
  • 28 adults received vocational, business and finance training, improving their opportunities to earn a steady income
  • 3 savings groups are helping children and adults save money and access loans to grow businesses or cover basic expenses
*Results reported for projects in this country from October 2016 to September 2017
Adults and youth acquire knowledge and skills, and gain access to resources, to help them increase their family income.

 
  • 28 child parliaments are empowering young people to advocate for their rights and participate in community decisions
  • 2,628 individuals including children are better equipped to protect themselves from disasters and respond to emergencies
  • 1,523 children and youth learned about child rights and protection issues to help ensure children's safety and participation
  • 4 community groups are teaching children and families to prevent disasters and protect themselves in times of crisis
  • 20 people learned how to work with local authorities and influence decisions to improve services and child well-being
*Results reported for projects in this country from October 2016 to September 2017
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