Project Background

BACKGROUND Why Guatemala?
Guatemala has one of the highest poverty and infant mortality rates in the world. This is especially notable within the Mayan communities. Having suffered many travesties in the countries recent history of war, they still suffer from discrimination and lack of government funding for even their most basic needs. Most of the area’s schools are without water, electricity or proper facilities to educate their children. Additionally, their government only provides a free education up to 6th grade, which prevents them from ever improving their standard of life.

We work with the Q’eqchi tribe. They are a proud people with a rich history and a strong work ethic.

Our project town is named ‘Lanquin’ and is located in the Alta Verapaz region of Northern Guatemala. Lanquin's economy is based on subsistence agriculture. The main crops are corn, beans and chile. The low prices they receive for these products do not allow the people of Lanquin to escape the cycle of poverty. The average income for a local family is around $25 per month and the average family consists of 5-10 people.

Lanquin and its surrounding area has a population of 17,128 with a demographic of 95% Q’eqchi and 5% Ladino. The climate is sub-tropical hot & humid with an average year round temperature of 78ºF.

A lush sub-tropical environment, it is surrounded by 11 mountains and 17 hills. Lanquín is commonly referred to as the cradle of natural beauty. Two special places in the area that have gained worldwide recognition: the millenary Lanquin Caves, and Semuc Champey, a unique place that attracts visitors from all over the world to swim in its crystalline waters.

Page last updated 26.01.10 - Site Design by Topher