My Story

Chixocol, where your child lives, is a very small village nestled in a mountain valley in the state of Quiche, Guatemala. Life in this state is very difficult and somewhat isolated from the outside world. Most families live in one-room adobe houses with dirt floors and a small attached kitchen. The extremely poor live in houses made of corn stalks. In the past few years electricity and water have become available to most people in the area - however, indoor plumbing is very rare. Most of the families are farmers or shepherds and live off the fruits of their labors. Public education is available for those who can afford it and consider it of value.  Life in Quiche is always a challenge

It is a joy for me to say hello to you through this letter and introduce some of my life and my family. I am Anastacia Sofia Mishell Tarse Xirum, and I am 4 years old. I was born on June 26, 2020. I am not attending school yet due to my age. My hobby is playing with dolls. I like pigs and the color red. I like many foods, but if you asked me what my favorite food is, I would say it is black beans with rice. I live with my parents, three brothers and one sister. Thank God, two of them are enrolled in the feeding program too. By the grace of God, we are a healthy family. One year ago, my father had an accident on a motorcycle and because of it, he is weak and it is a little difficult for him to work. My father´s name is Diego Tarse Quino. He works as a farmer and day laborer. My mother´s name is Tomasa Xirum Chingo. She weaves typical blouses and then sells them and contributes to the income at home. We are members of a Methodist Church. Thank God, we are blessed to have our own house. My great-grandmother lives with us and my maternal uncles. We have three rooms and a separated kitchen. The house is made of block and adobe walls, tin sheet roof and concrete floor. We have running water and electricity. My parents pay for these services. We raise some domestic animals like pigs, hens and turkey. Even though my parents do their best, it is difficult to cover all our needs. We ask for your prayers for God to be our provider. We travel 20 minutes in tuk tuk to get to the feeding program. I wish you many blessings.

Affectionately,

Anastacia Sofia Mishell Tarse Xirum

Translated by: Magnolia De Torres / A-A-C Secretary-Antigua Guatemala