My Story

Pasojoc III, where your child lives, is located in an extremely remote area of the mountains in Quiche, Guatemala. Life in this area is very difficult and very isolated from the outside world. It is a 3-hour walk to the nearest market town. The people who inhabit the area are Quiche Indians who can trace their ancestral roots to the ancient Mayan civilization. They normally speak an Indian dialect called Quiche; however, Spanish is becoming more common. The climate is basically warm, but it can get very cold at night. Houses in this area are typically constructed of adobe with tin sheet or tile roofs and dirt floors. Pasojoc III is an area rich with natural resources. It is a farming area where the inhabitants grow staples such as corn, beans and other types of vegetables. Many families also raise domestic animals such as sheep, goats, cows and chickens.

Hello! My full name is Lorena Riz Rodriguez. I was born on Mar 26, 2016, in Zacualpa, Quiche, Guatemala. I am 9 years old and I am a healthy girl. I am repeating first grade for the second time. I help to herd our sheep. My favorite color is purple, and the animal I like the most is the turkey. My favorite meals are eggs and rice. I have one brother and one sister. My father works looking after cattle in the United States; he traveled abroad seven years ago. Fortunately, he sends us financial support every two months. His name is Juan Riz de la Cruz. My mother works weaving typical blouses, and she raises hens, turkeys and sheep. Her name is Eva Rodriguez Morales. Unfortunately, my parents had marital problems, and they are no longer a couple. They decided to separate about four months ago.

My loved ones are in good health. We attend the New Covenant Christian Church. Fortunately, we live in our own property. There are four adobe rooms with a tin sheet roof, and a dirt floor. The kitchen is separate. We have running water and electricity services. The water is a yearly payment, and the electricity is a monthly payment. Our greatest needs are groceries and clothes. I am so grateful to be registered in the Living Water feeding program. I get there by walking in 40 minutes. I attend alongside one of my cousins, and fortunately, we receive the food at the school we attend. Thank you so much for your beautiful heart for the people in Guatemala like me. Many and rich blessings over you!

Warm hugs,

Lorena Riz Rodriguez

Translated by: Violeta Hernandez / A-A-C Secretary-Antigua Guatemala