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 laborers. 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 greet you in the name of Jesus hoping you are blessed in your beautiful country. My name is Mariela Noemi Benito Chingo. My mother is Julia Benito Chingo. She struggles to support our family by working as a maid from Monday to Saturday. My biological father did not legally recognize me and abandoned our family. Since that happened, my mother has not established a new relationship, and she is dedicating her time to us. We stay under the care of my grandmother Gregoria Chingo while she is working. Praise God, my mom is healthy. Fortunately, our family attends a Church.

I was born in Zacualpa on December 11, 2018. I will turn 7 years old this year. My health is good currently.  I am in kindergarten at school. My hobby is playing with my dolls. My favorite pet is the rabbit. I like purple color, and my favorite dish is fried chicken. I have three sisters including my twin sister, and I walk for 30 minutes alongside them to attend the feeding program.

We live with my grandparents and two aunts. The house belongs to my grandmother, and it has three rooms, and a separate kitchen. It is made of adobe walls, tile roof and cemented floor. We have an artisanal well where we get running water. We also have electricity that should be paid for every month, so we share the payment with all my relatives at home. As a domestic animal, we have some chickens. Our greatest necessities are groceries and clothes. Well, this is time to say goodbye. I send my best wishes to your family and you. May God bless you!

Kisses and hugs,

Mariela Noemi Benito Chingo

Translated by: Mireya de Sandoval, AAC Secretary / Antigua