My Story

Zacualpa is a small but busy village in a mountain valley. The village is inhabited by both Quiche Mayans and Ladinos (those with mixed European ancestry). The prevalent language is Spanish. Families in this village live in one or two room homes generally constructed of either wood or adobe. Although many of the people are farmers, the village contains several small specialized stores, a body repair shop for buses, mechanics, plumbers and many other small-town tradesmen. It also has a large open-air market which serves much of the area. Even with all of this, the poverty level is very high and the children are very needy.

Good morning, everybody! My full name is Estefany Giselle Gomez Gutierrez and I am so happy to share my story with you through this letter. I was born on June 28, 2022. I am a healthy girl, but I still do not attend school due to my age. I love pretending to cook with plastic food toys as a pastime. My favorite color is purple. I like rabbits, and my favorite food is fried chicken. About my family, I tell you that my father is the main supporter. His name is Jose Luis Gomez Pantzay and he is doing well. He makes a living by making typical clothes. My mother is doing well and she also works hard doing the chores and taking care of our family. Her name is Telma Gutierrez Chingo de Gomez.

I only have two sisters, but no brothers. I am so happy because I can attend the feeding program alongside them. They were enrolled about one year ago. We usually get there in five minutes by bus. We are grateful to my grandparents because they allow us to live at their house. They are my relatives on my mother’s side. The house is made of concrete blocks with tin sheet roof and concrete floors. It has three rooms, a separate kitchen, electricity, and a well. My family and I use one room of the house because one of my cousins lives there too. My father takes turns with my grandfather to cover the household expenses like electricity. It is almost time to say goodbye, but I kindly ask you to pray for my whole family and our needs. Most of them are groceries, corn, and clothes. See you later!

With gratitude,

Estefany Giselle Gomez Gutierrez

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Guatemala