My Story

Zacualpa is a small but busy village in a mountain valley. The village is inhabited by both Quiche Mayans and Ladinos (those with mixed European ancestry). The prevalent language is Spanish. Families in this village live in one or two room homes generally constructed of either wood or adobe. Although many of the people are farmers, the village contains several small specialized stores, a body repair shop for buses, mechanics, plumbers and many other small town tradesmen. It also has a large open air market which serves much of the area. Even with all of this, the poverty level is very high and the children are very needy.

Many greetings for you! This is Rosa Maria Sulamita Morente Mendez and I am so happy to write this letter to tell you about my life. I was born on October 23, 2014. Fortunately, I am a healthy 10-year-old girl and I am in fourth grade at school. The tiger is my favorite animal and I love the color pink My favorite pastime is playing soccer with my siblings, and I love having spaghetti for my meals. Now, let me tell you a little about my family. I have three brothers and one sister. We attend the Prince of Peace Pentecostal Church. My mom is Hilaria Silvia Mendez Morente. She makes a living as a domestic employee. She also sells second-hand clothes on the streets to support our family. Our priorities are food and clothes. My father is Victoriano Morente Grave. He works as a motorcycle taxi driver. He separated from my mom about one month ago, but he helps us with a little money every week.

My family and I live with my grandparents, on my mom’s side, at their house. We are grateful to my grandfather, Benito Mendez, because he allows us to raise some chickens at home. While my mom works, one of my aunts and grandparents take care of my siblings and me. The house made of adobe, tin sheet roof, and concrete floors. It has four rooms, a separated kitchen, electricity, and a well. I want you to know that I am glad to be part of LW-Adopt a Child. I usually walk 20 minutes from my house to get to the feeding program alongside my sibling. I say goodbye to you now, but it would be wonderful to hear from you. See you later!

With much love,

Rosa Maria Sulamita Morente Mendez

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala