My Story

Tunajá is a very primitive 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.  Life in Tunajá is extremely difficult.

Hello, it is a nice pleasure to greet you today. I am Carlos Morente Chingo, and I would like to share with you about my life and family. Before starting, I want you to know that my mother gave all this information to the LW team. I am 7 years old. I was born on August 15, 2016. My health is good. I like green. My favorite animal is the rabbit. My hobby is playing soccer. I love eating noodles. I am in the 1^st grade at school. I live with my parents and one sister. My father´s name is Baldemar Morente Gutierrez and my mother´s is Ana Isabel Chingo Ruiz. My sister´s name is Gregoria, and she is registered in the feeding program. We usually walk for about one hour to arrive at the program.

My father suffered an accident 13 years ago, and he currently cannot talk or walk. He uses a wheelchair, and he cannot take care of himself. My mother is the one who supports our family. She weaves to earn a living. Moreover, my paternal grandfather also helps us economically after my father’s accident. He works as a day laborer. We live in my uncle´s house. Fortunately, we do not pay any rent. There is just one room in the house. My mother must share the kitchen with my grandmother. It has adobe walls, tin sheet roof and dirt floors. There is running water and electricity that my grandfather pays. Our domestic animals are 5 chickens, one dog and one cat. My sister and I normally walk for one hour to arrive at the feeding program. I am glad to tell you that we attend the Prince of Peace Church. Our greatest necessities as a family are corn, food, clothes and shoes. Well, this is all for now. I hope you find this interesting. I love you so much and I thank you for blessing me every other way. I send you a strong hug and my best wishes.

Many blessings,

Carlos Morente Chingo

Translated by: Mireya de Sandoval, AAC Secretary / Antigua