Opportunities & Hope for 250 Guatemalan Maya Women

On Friday, July 10, 2026, Asociación de Mujeres del Altiplano, in partnership with Highland Support Project, hosted a hands-on workshop on the proper maintenance and use of wood-saving stoves in the community of Pasacuach, Santa Catarina Ixtahuacán. Of the 15 women who received stoves through this initiative, 14 attended in person, with one sending a representative on her behalf—a testament to how much this program means to the women it serves.

A Community Gathered

The workshop was held at the home of Doña María Gómez, a member of her community's board of directors and one of the 15 beneficiaries of the stove program. Her home was a fitting setting for the occasion. Known for her warmth, humor, and infectious energy, Doña María has become something of a pillar in her community. Her kitchen, immaculately clean and thoughtfully organized, served as a living example of the very values the workshop sought to instill: that when we care for the things we are given, they serve us far longer.

"When you take care of something valuable, it lasts much longer," one of the women shared during the session. "But when you don't value it, what you've been given won't last long at all."

These words resonated deeply with everyone in the room—and they reflect the spirit at the heart of this project.

Gratitude and Transformation

The women who gathered that morning were not simply attendees. They were mothers, neighbors, and community leaders whose daily lives have been meaningfully changed by access to an improved cooking stove. The shift from traditional open-fire cooking to a wood-saving stove represents more than a practical upgrade—it means cleaner air inside the home, less firewood consumed, and a healthier environment for entire families.

Doña Catarina, another beneficiary, spoke with visible emotion about the impact the stove has had on her life. "I feel like I received a great blessing," she said. "Cooking feels completely different now. I never imagined such a change was possible."

Katy, the program facilitator from Asociación de Mujeres del Altiplano, was moved by the reception the workshop received. "Walking into that room and seeing the joy on these women's faces—it's hard to put into words," she reflected. "This is exactly why we do this work. These women aren't just receiving a stove; they're receiving dignity, health, and hope for their families."

What the Workshop Covered

The session focused on practical, hands-on guidance to help each woman get the most out of her stove. Topics included:

• Daily and weekly cleaning routines to maintain the stove's efficiency and longevity
• Safe fuel practices, including the best types of wood to use and how to reduce smoke inside the kitchen
• Basic troubleshooting, so that minor issues can be addressed without outside assistance
• The importance of proper ventilation and kitchen hygiene in supporting overall family health

The women asked thoughtful questions throughout, and by the end of the session, the conversation had taken on a life of its own—women sharing tips, comparing experiences, and encouraging each other to stay committed to maintaining their stoves.

The Bigger Picture

This workshop is one chapter in an ongoing story of empowerment. Through the collaborative efforts of Asociación de Mujeres del Altiplano and Highland Support Project, communities like Pasacuach are gaining access to tools and knowledge that can transform daily life—not just for one generation, but for the children and grandchildren who grow up in these homes.

The majority of the women who received stoves have already been using them regularly. The smiles in that room spoke louder than any report could.

"What we're building here isn't just cleaner kitchens," Katy added. "It's confidence. It's community. It's the knowledge that these women matter and that their wellbeing matters."

Your Support Makes This Possible

Stories like Doña Catarina's, Doña María's, and those of the 13 other women in Pasacuach are living proof of what collaboration and care can achieve. These moments of transformation happen because of the support of people like you.

While the wood-saving stoves are a vital piece of the puzzle, they are only the beginning. Beyond providing physical tools, Asociación de Mujeres del Altiplano and Highland Support Project are committed to empowering communities through workshops, resources, and continuous support. These efforts ensure that every initiative becomes a lasting change, guided by the knowledge and resilience of the people we serve.

There are countless communities across the Guatemalan highlands yearning for access to the same opportunities as the women of Pasacuach. Your contribution allows us to strengthen and continue building collaborative partnerships that inspire enduring growth.

Please consider making a donation today to sustain this work. Your generosity equips us to not only deliver tools but to also foster empowerment, knowledge, and hope in every community we reach.

Together, we can continue creating opportunities that transform lives for generations to come.