My Story

Duenas, where your child lives, is a small farming village located at the foot of one of Guatemala's active volcanoes, Fuego (Fire). The fertile ground around the village allows for the cultivation of roses and coffee, two of Guatemala's largest exports. Most of the families in this area live in one or two room wooden or adobe houses with tin roofs. Electricity is available to those who can afford it. Running water is available - however, most homes do not have indoor plumbing. Public education is available for those who can afford it and consider education of value. Life in Duenas is quiet and sometimes difficult.

Hello! I am glad to write this letter and tell you a little about me. I am Debora Beatriz Ordonez Vargas, and I am 8 years old now. My birthday is in October 6. This year, I am a 1^st grade student.  In my spare time, I enjoy drawing. I love the color sky blue and my favorite animal is the cat. I like to eat “Chilaquiles” (Guatemala typical food prepared with squash, cheese and eggs). We are a Christian family and attend a church called “Dios es Amor”. My small family consists of my mother and my older siblings since my father does not live with us. My mother is Maria Gladis Yolanda Vargas Alvarado, and she struggles to support our family working as a baby-sitter in our town. My father is Cristobal Ordonez Mendez, and he separated from us many years ago. However, he helps my mother with our expenses. He works as a security guard. My family and I are well.

We live in a rented house made of block, tin sheet roof and concrete floor. There is one room. There is not a separate kitchen, so we cook in the hallway. We have running water and electricity. My mother pays for rent and services Q. 400.00 quetzals ($ 54.00) monthly. Our main need is groceries. I would like to ask for your prayers for God to bless our family. We walk about 20 minutes from home to the feeding program. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be part of the ministry and enjoy all the benefits, such as delicious food and medical care.

God bless you!

Debora Beatriz Ordonez Vargas

Translated by: Lucia Gravez/AAC Secretary