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.

Hello! My full name is Anderson Sadrac Lara del Pinal, and I am delighted to write this letter to you. By the grace of the Lord, I am a healthy 9-year-old boy. I was born on September 27, 2015. I am in second grade and everything is going well at school. My favorite pastime is playing soccer with my friends. Guatemalan food is delicious, but if you asked me what my favorite food is, I would say it is pepian. I like goats and my favorite color is green. Now, let me tell you a little about family. Thankfully, they are all in good health. My father, Marcos Antonio Lara Sas, makes a living as a farmer. My mom is Monica Roxana del Pilar Aguilar, and she works as a babysitter. I only have one brother. His name is Marcos Emanuel Lara del Pilar, and he is the oldest child.

Besides my parents and brother, let me tell you that I live with three more families. They are my grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins. My grandfather, Jose Lara Perez, owns the house where we live. The house is made of tin sheet walls and roofs with concrete floors. There are four rooms at home for each family. Everybody contributes to cover the monthly household expenses, such as electricity and running water services. We have five cute cats at home as pets. Taking advantage of this opportunity, I ask you to pray for provision and prosperity for my family. We trust in God and try to strengthen our faith by attending a Christian Church called King of Nations. To end this letter, I want you to know that I am so happy to be part of the feeding program. I walk for three minutes to get there alongside my brother. I say goodbye to you now, but I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Warm hugs,

Anderson Sadrac Lara del Pinal

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary /Antigua Guatemala