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, I am Yoselin Gricelda Hernandez Perez, and I would like to introduce my family and myself today. My father´s name is Manuel Hernandez Hernandez. He works as a farmer or day laborer to support us. My mother is Santos Perez. She is a housewife. Thank God, my parents are healthy. We are not attending any church yet.

I am a healthy girl. I was born on April, 15, 2020, in Zacualpa Quiche. I am 6 years old. I do not attend school due to my young age. I spend my time at home playing with my siblings, hide-and-seek. My favorite food is eggs, and my favorite color is pink. I like cats. I only have three brothers. As a family, some of our necessities are clothes, food, corn and shoes. I am happy to be part of the feeding program. I go with some neighbors and friends and walk for 10 minutes to get there.

We live with my paternal grandparents at their house. The house has two rooms and a separate kitchen. Our family uses one room. It is made of tin sheet walls and roof and dirt floor. We do not have running water, but one neighbor gives it to us, and we carry it with plastic jars. Besides that, he gives us electricity. Both water and electricity expenses are shared by my grandfather and father monthly. We do not have any domestic animals at home. Well, this is all for now. I bless you in the name of God hoping you are doing well with your family. I send my love and best wishes.

Yours truly,

Yoselin Gricelda Hernandez Perez

Translated by: Mireya de Sandoval, AAC Secretary / Antigua