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.

What a blessing to greet you today! I am very excited to start a communication with you. My name is Elvia Marleny Benito Cuin. I come from a humble family. My father´s name is Gabriel Benito Chingo. He lives with us and sustains our family by working as a day laborer or farmer. My mother´s name is Candelaria Cuin Luis. She also lives with us and takes care of us and the house. Fortunately, both are in good health. I also have one brother and two sisters. One of my sisters is enrolled in the feeding program also. We usually walk together to the program for about 30 minutes.

We live in my paternal grandparents´ house. It belongs to my grandmother. The house has 4 rooms, from which we use 3 and a separated kitchen. There is a well where we get water. Besides that, there is electricity that my parents pay every month. We raise chickens, and food is our greatest necessity. As a family, we attend a church. Talking about me, well I was born on April 9, 2016. I am 8 years old, and I am in the 2^nd grade at school this year. I love eating fried chicken. My favorite color is red. My favorite animal is the cat. My health is good thanks to God. In my free time, I enjoy playing with dolls. Ok, this is a short story of my life and family. My mother was the one who gave all this information since I am so young. I love you and thank you for your attention. May God bless you and protect you wherever you are! See you next time.

Lots of love,

Elvia Marleny Benito Cuin

Translated by: Mireya de Sandoval, AAC Secretary / Antigua