By Wendy Ramirez | Project Director
Dear KIND Friends,
For Colectivo Vida Digna, one of KIND’s local partners working with children through the Guatemalan Child Return and Reintegration Project (GCRRP), it is all about helping returning children discover their strengths and skills. As thousands of children who migrate alone to the U.S. are sent back to Guatemala, KIND and Vida Digna offer them a glimpse of hope.
Such is the case of Santiago,* who migrated from a small village in Quiche. The poverty in his village is severe and Santiago felt discouraged by the lack of job prospects. He attempted to cross the U.S.-Mexico border twice, was apprehended and taken into custody, and ultimately referred to the GCRRP. Upon his return to Guatemala, he expressed worry and guilt that his family, who was already living in extreme poverty, now had a huge debt to pay to cover his trips to the U.S.
Through the GCRRP, Vida Digna staff visited Santiago’s home and invited him and his parents to attend workshops about Mayan cultural knowledge and skill-building trainings. Here, Santiago and his family began to explore valuable strengths and skills they already possessed that could help them enter the competitive market economy. With the help of special agricultural training and a small loan, Santiago and his family harvested two acres of onions and one acre of green beans that were then sold to a buyer for export.
Thanks to your help, Santiago has gained confidence and can see opportunities at home that are real alternatives to migration. Although challenges remain – his family still lives without running water or electricity-- Santiago is happy that he can contribute to his family’s economy. As he looks to the future, he hopes to find a way to return to school to continue his formal education.
There are so many children like Santiago who, with our help, can plan productive futures at home in Guatemala. We are very grateful for your support.
Warm regards,
Wendy Ramirez
Project Director
*name changed to protect confidentiality
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