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. 

I greet you in Jesus’ name. I am Esvin Danilo Rodriguez Cachupe, and I am in good health. I was born on November 13, 2014, so I am now 11 years old. I am attending school this year, and I am in 5th grade. In my free time, I play soccer. My favorite dish is a typical one called “Pepian”, and I love the color black. The animal that I like the most is the dog. My family and I attend a Pentecostal Church called Chosen by the Holy Spirit. I have two brothers and one sister. I walk for 10 minutes to arrive at the feeding program.   

My parents are in good health, and their names are Cecilio Isabel Rodriguez Martinez and Yesenia Cachupe Ajin. My father works in his own small plant nursery while my mother keeps busy doing all the household chores. We are living in a rented house and we pay Q700.00 quetzals (about $94.00) per month; my oldest brother helps with the payment, and he works as a mason helper. The house is made of tin sheets and wood with a tin sheet roof and dirt floor. We have running water and electricity. We have dogs as pets. We are a humble family, and our frequent needs are groceries and clothes. I tell you that my mom helped me with this letter.  I say goodbye to you for now.  

Sincerely yours 

Esvin Danilo Rodriguez Cachupe 

Translated by: Loyda de Osorio, AAC Secretary-Antigua