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. 

Hello! My full name is Angie Catalina Castro Garcia, and I am a healthy girl. I was born on October 10, 2020. I still do not attend school because my parents think that I am too young. My favorite pastimes are playing with my toys and painting. I love doggies. My favorite food is beef broth. I like the color black. I am an only child in my family. I live with my mother and grandparents on my father’s side. Unfortunately, my father does not live with me because he had to travel to the United States about three years ago. His name is Jose Gaspar Castro Quinilla. He is in touch with my mother and me, so we know he is doing well. He works in a dairy and sends us money every 15 days.  

My mother’s name is Juana Garcia Luis. She works in a bakery to contribute to the household expenses. While she works, my grandmother takes care of me. We are Christians and attend Liberty Church. The house where I live belongs to my grandparents. It is made of concrete blocks with a tin sheet roof and concrete floors. It has three rooms, a separate kitchen, electricity, and running water. We raise some chickens at home for our consumption. The feeding program is about 15 minutes from my house, so one of my cousins and I walk to get there. Thank you so much for reading my letter! I hope you found it engaging.  

Kisses and hugs,  

Angie Catalina Castro Garcia 

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala