My Story

Dueñas, 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 Dueñas is quiet and sometimes difficult.

It is a blessing to say hello to you through this letter. This is Dylan Mateo Matias Civil, and I am 5 years old. Before continuing with my story, I want you to know that my grandmother helped me write this letter to you. I was born on August 16, 2019. Fortunately, I am in good health. I still do not attend school. However, I hope to do it next year. At the moment, I am an only child in my family. My favorite hobbies are playing with my soccer ball and toy cars.  I love eating black beans or spaghetti with meat. My favorite color is red and my favorite animal is the lion. I live with my parents. They love me and work hard to support our family economically. My father is Brayan David Matias Bran. He makes a living as a farmer in our town. My mom is Elvia Lorena Civil Sul. She works as a domestic employee in our town. We do not attend any church at the moment.

My parents and I live with my paternal grandparents and three uncles. They take care of me while my parents go to work. Thankfully, the house where we live is ours. My parents and grandparents bought it on credit, so they have to pay Q1,200=$155.27 monthly. Our house is made of concrete block walls with tin sheet roofs and concrete floors. It has four rooms, a separate kitchen, electricity, and running water. We have a lovely dog at home as a pet. I am glad to be part of the feeding program because I can have delicious food for free. My grandmother and I usually walk 30 minutes from our house to get there. To end this letter, I ask you to pray for my family and needs. One of our greatest needs is food. Thank you so much for your kind attention and prayers!

Many blessings,

Dylan Mateo Matias Civil

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala