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 name is Yamara Leon Pu, and I am 11 years old. I am so happy to share my information with you through this letter. I was born on March 11, 2014. I am a healthy girl. I attend school as a fourth grader. My favorite color is black. I love eating fried chicken. My favorite domestic animals are rabbits. Now, let me tell you about my family. I am an only child. Sadly, my mother passed away about 9 years ago. Her name was Juana Pu Tino. Since then, I have lived with my grandmother. Her name is Antonia Pu Tino. She is 51 years old and works as a day laborer to cover my needs. To earn extra income, she also raises and sells chickens, pigs, and sheep. My favorite pastime is helping her with the household chores. We do not attend any church at the moment. About my biological father, let me tell you that he abandoned me after my mother died. His name is Diego Leon Alonzo. 

The house where we live belongs to my grandmother. It is made of adobe with a tile roof and a concrete floor. It has three rooms, a separate kitchen, electricity, but no running water. However, there is a spring about 10 minutes away from our house. We carry water by using a plastic vessel. My house is about 30 minutes away from the feeding program. I usually walk to get there alongside my cousins. It is time to say goodbye, but I kindly ask you to pray for my family and our needs. Some of them are clothes, shoes, and food. In advance, thank you so much. Have a wonderful day!  

Sincerely yours,  

Yamara Leon Pu 

Translated by: Hillary Popol, AAC Secretary / Antigua Guatemala