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.

Hello! I am Yeferson Jeronimo Rodriguez. I am excited to tell you about me for the first time. I hope you are well in your country. I appreciate your interest in me. I am 7 years old. I am healthy. My favorite color is red, and I am in kindergarten at school. I like cats and I do not have a favorite dish since I like eating almost everything. My hobby is playing with toy cars. I live in my maternal grandparents´ house because my parents do not own one. Thankfully, we do not pay any rent. We have electricity and running water at home. My parents pay those annually. The house is made of tile roof, cement floor and adobe walls. It has three rooms including the separate kitchen.

My father´s name is Rogelio Rodriguez Coj. He is a farmer and a day laborer. My mother´s name is Marcela Chingo Chingo. She is a housewife and raises chickens and pigs at home. My whole family is in good health thanks to God. We are members of the Catholic Church. As a family we have many necessities, but the main one is corn and food. My sisters Gladis, Elida and Ashly are registered in the feeding program. We usually walk for 40 minutes to attend there. Well, it was nice to share this information with you. My mother provided everything to the LW team for you. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to say hello. I send you my love and many kisses.

Many blessings,

Yeferson Jeronimo Rodriguez Chingo

Translated by: Mireya de Sandoval, AAC Secretary / Antigua