My Story

Duenas, 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 Duenas is quiet and sometimes difficult.

Good morning to you on this beautiful day. I am so glad to share a little about my life and my family. This is Santiago Saul Hernandez Poron, and I was born on July 25^th, 2018. I am now 8 years old. I live with my parents and brother. My father´s name is Juan David Hernandez Guachin. He makes a living as a farmer to provide for our home needs. My mother´s name is Monica Maria Poron Melgar. She usually stays busy with the household work. We are attending the Catholic Church; it is in the center of the plaza of our village. I am in first grade this year. I love coloring in my spare time. My favorite food is stew. I like cats; in fact, we have 4 cats at home. I love the color green. Thanks to God, I am healthy and so are my loved ones.

We live in San Sebastian farm and fortunately, we do not pay any rent since our relatives are working in the farm. There are three families living there. We have one room, and it is entirely made of metal sheets. The floor is made of ceramic. There is running water and electricity; the three families contribute to pay for those services. Our pets are 4 dogs, 7 parakeets, and 4 hens. For now, our greatest need is a wardrobe. I am so blessed to be enrolled in the feeding program, and I just walk 15 minutes. Well, this is all for now and I hope to hear news from you very soon. May our almighty God bless you always!

With all my love,

Santiago Saul Hernandez Poron

Translated by: Violeta Hernandez, A-A-C Secretary-Antigua