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! This is Peyton Betsaida Perez Mixiya, and I hope you are fine. I am writing this letter to tell you a little about me. I am a healthy girl, and I am 5 years old; I was born on August 7, 2021. I am not attending school yet due to my age. In my free time, I color and sing children’s songs. I love eating eggs, and I like the color purple. My favorite animal is the cat. I am the only child in the family. We believe in God, and we are members of a church called Remnant of Love. Please pray for us since we are always in need of groceries. I have to walk for 20 minutes to arrive at the feeding program, and I am happy to be part of it.   

My father’s name is Cristian Leonel Perez Zamora, and he works as a mason helper. My mother’s name is Pricila Antonieta Mixiya Fajardo, and she works hard at home. We live in a rented house, and we pay Q700.00 quetzals (about $94.00) per month. The house has two rooms and a kitchen, and it is made of concrete block with a tin sheet roof and concrete floor. We have running water and electricity services. I say goodbye to you for now.  

With much love 

Peyton Betsaida Perez Mixiya 

Translated by: Loyda de Osorio, AAC Secretary-Antigua