New Lives for 150 Women of the Guatemala City Dump

Many elements of Creamos, like much of Guatemala, continue to operate in virtual spaces when possible as infection rates recently peaked at the end of August with the increasing presence of the more contagious Delta variant. Currently, a little over 13% of the population of Guatemala is vaccinated. Specifically within the communities of the Guatemala City garbage dump, myths and misinformation regarding Covid-19 circulate via social media in the absence of educational resources regarding safe health practices. Added layers of religious influence, low education levels, and historical exclusion from adequate healthcare systems have resulted in hesitancy and even fear of the vaccine and a stigma of testing positive.

In efforts to counter these elements and assist their community in navigating the government’s vaccination process, Creamos participants, Lesly (pictured above), Mirna, and Maria recently participated in a community-led health training. Through their participation, they gained vital information about the virus, the vaccine, and how to respond to Covid-related questions. As a follow-up to this training, these three women, along with a staff member at Creamos, manage a list of all vaccinated community members, ensure that their friends and neighbors know when and where to receive their second dose, and reach out to those once they become eligible for the vaccine. Lesly, Mirna, and Maria meet every Monday at Creamos to review and update the list and make calls to members of the community. As respected women of Creamos, their congregations, and the larger community, these women have been key to combating layers of mistrust and misinformation that, unchallenged, would result in low vaccination rates and likely higher infection rates within the community. In a display of leadership and solidarity, they’re taking it upon themselves to make their communities brighter and healthier.