San Pedro la Laguna, on Lake Atitlan
in Guatemala, is economically better off than many of the villages of Guatemala, due to its tourist facilities, mild climate and visual beauty.
Although this situation can vary greatly at a given time due to conditions that
affect tourism--the yearly cyanobacteria bloom in the lake, bad weather, landslides that close roads or destroy villages, the economic downturn worldwide--painting is a viable
occupation in this town known for its vibrant Tz’utujil culture and art
traditions.
Help Me Paint My Future/
Ayudame a Pintar Mi Futuro
Ayudame a Pintar Mi Futuro
But as in any community, some individuals can be "left behind" due to a low level of literacy, inheritance, or support. Single mothers
are particularly vulnerable. The mothers
in this project have either lost husbands due to death or divorce, or have
husbands who are non-functioning alcoholics.
All are Maya Tz’utujil, although most speak some Spanish. Four of the mothers cannot write their
names. They have an average of four
children. A few women have taken on the
responsibility of a child due to the death of the child’s parent. These are usually aunts or grand-mothers, and
have other children still to care for so this additional child is a burden,
financially. Our program is designed to
address some of urgent needs of this population with scant resources.
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