Protect Guatemalan Forests with Clean Cookstoves

I am pleased to update you on our energy-efficient kitchen stove project at Tu'ik Ruch' Lew (TRL). In the first third of this year, we continued this initiative with a clear mission: to improve more lives in the Santiago Atitlán community while protecting the environment. Our dedicated team has worked tirelessly on this program, and it brings us great joy when like-minded groups show interest in our organization.

 On April 5, we were honored to receive a visit from the Rotary Club of Los Altos, California. They participated with our TRL team in installing improved cookstoves at two sites, one of which was the facility in Tzanchaj.

 Upon arrival at the site, we were confronted with the sight of an open fire still in use in a corner of the kitchen. A brief moment spent in the kitchen was enough to understand the dangers associated with this traditional cooking method. The thick smoke emanating from the kitchen caused a burning sensation in the eyes of those who entered, and even from a distance, the pungent smell was noticeable.

 The installation process was carried out by Heman, our organization's accountant, who fearlessly gets his hands dirty when it comes to helping our beneficiaries. As the installation concluded, Candelaria, another invaluable member of our team, lit the stove next to our beneficiary. The contrast between the new stove and the open fire was palpable. 

Witnessing the first lighting of a newly installed stove is always a poignant moment for the beneficiary family. We could see hope shining in their eyes, and we could only imagine the delicious meals they would share and the cherished moments they would experience around the warmth of their new stove.

This exemplifies the heart of our organization and the TRL movement, where we prioritize the well-being of our community members, their health, and their economic prosperity while preserving the natural environment surrounding them.

Thank you for your continued support.