TU2862

Tunajá is an area of the state of Quiché, Guatemala.  The inhabitants are Quiché Indians who trace their ancestral roots to the ancient Mayan civilization.  The prevalent language is the Indian dialect - Quiché.  The people are either farmers or shepherds and live off the fruits of their labors.  Very little money ever changes hands as they use a barter system.  Public education is available - however, most families cannot afford it.  Electricity and running water are not available in most of the area.

Hello, my name is Petronila Zetino Chich.  I was born on May 15, 2013.  I walk about 30 minutes to get to the feeding program.  I have suffered from allergies since I was a baby.  I have been to seek medical treatment and am taking medicine.  My mother’s name is Petronila and she is a housewife.  She also weaves typical items.  My father’s name is Juan and he is working in the United States.  He calls us and sends us money for our expenses.  I have one brother and one sister.  We are borrowing the house in which we live.  It is adobe with a tin roof and a dirt floor.  We have a separate kitchen that is made of tin.  We have water and electricity.  My family does not travel to the coast during the coffee harvest as many families do.  We also have some hens, ducks and turkeys.  I am in kindergarten and when I am not in school, I spend my time playing with my dolls and I also like to weave.  My favorite color is orange and my favorite animal is the duck.  The foods that I best are peaches and black beans.  My family attends a Catholic church.

With much love and many blessings,

Petronila Zetino Chich

Translated by: Edwina Lyons/AAC Missionary