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! It is a tremendous blessing to greet you. My full name is Oliver Adrian Otoy De Leon, and I want to tell you a little about my life through this letter. I was born on November 1, 2015. I am 8 years old, and I am in second grade. My favorite pastime is playing soccer with my friends. My favorite color is green. I like cats, and my favorite food is fried chicken. I live with my mom and two young sisters; I am the oldest child at home. Thankfully, we are all doing well. My mom is Yosabeth Fabiola De Leon. She works hard as a domestic employee in Antigua town to support our family. About my father, let me tell you that sadly, he left our home about three months ago. However, he helps my sisters and me economically. His name is Carlos Joaquin Otoy Pelen. He makes a living by carrying people from one place to another on his motorcycle.

My family and I do not attend any church now. We live in a rented house, which is near the feeding program. My sisters and I usually walk fifteen minutes to get there. My mom pays Q900=$116.43 monthly for renting the house. The house is made out of concrete block walls, tin sheet roofs, and concrete floors. It has two rooms, a separate kitchen, electricity, and running water. Besides the rent payment, my mom must cover the bills for the services. My family and I have two lovely cats at home as pets. Before saying goodbye to you, I want you to know that my mom helped me write this letter to you. I hope you found it lovely. 

Kind regards,

Oliver Adrian Otoy De Leon

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala