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. 

Special greetings to you! My name is Juana Guadalupe Micaela Tum Tiniguar, and I am so happy to share my story with you. I was born on October 28, 2020. I am too young to attend school, so I stay home with my mother. My favorite pastime is playing with my dolls. I like the color pink. My favorite food is chicken with rice, and I love cats. Fortunately, my family and I are doing well. My parents’ names are Vinicio Tum Us and Francisca Tiniguar De La Cruz. My father is a farmer and a day laborer, while my mother keeps busy doing the chores. She also embroiders blouses from our country by using special techniques to contribute to the expenses. About siblings, let me tell you that I only have one brother. We attend the Catholic church alongside our parents. By the grace of the Lord, we live in our own house. It is made of concrete blocks and adobe with a tin sheet roof and concrete floors. It has two rooms, a separate kitchen, electricity, and running water. The feeding program is near my house. My siblings and I usually walk for five minutes to get there. This is all for now, but I hope you found my information engaging. Have a wonderful day! 

In Jesus’ name,  

Juana Guadalupe Micaela Tum Tiniguar 

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala