Elmer and his wife, Ana Elizabeth, were ostracized by their community when Elmer came down with COVID-19 in early 2020. That was just the beginning of the illness’s impact on their lives, which has also included difficulty earning a living since Elmer has struggled with long-term health complications. But today, through a combination of World Vision child sponsorship and Gift Catalog sheep, the family is thriving and feeling new hope.
News & Stories
Guatemala
From the Field
Clean water through a turn of the tap
Water piped in from the mountains surrounding this community of Guatemala has made a big difference in the lives of families living here. Community access, plus partnership with the local government and World Vision, has meant families can quickly access clean water for drinking and daily chores with a simple turn of the tap.
Prayers
Matthew 25: Prayer for economic empowerment
More than 700 million people worldwide live on less than $2.15 a day. Join us in prayer for hardworking families to break the cycle of poverty for good.
Prayers
Matthew 25: Prayer for children’s education
Join us in prayer for children everywhere to gain the education, wisdom, and discernment they need to reach the fullness of life God intends for them.
From the Field
Simple recipe changes help once-underweight Yesica to thrive
World Vision staff in Yesica’s community observed that she was underweight for her age. They connected her mother, Telma, with a nutrition training program so she could learn to make more nutritious food with local ingredients. Now Yesica falls into an appropriate weight for her age and height.
From the Field
Chickens and child sponsorship help a family change course
Child sponsorship and the gift of chickens help the family of Hamilton, who is deaf, provide for his medical needs. Plus, the chickens provide a wonderful stress release for his mother, Juana.
From the Field
A winning smile for chickens
Gift Catalog chickens have helped single mother Delmi care for herself and her 5-year-old son, Alvaro. Thanks to the extra money she earns by selling chickens and eggs at the local market, she can more easily afford the supplies he needs for his education.
From the Field
In photos: 23 moments to remember
In 2023, the harsh realities of conflict, displacement, natural disaster, and extreme hunger impacted the lives of millions of people worldwide. As World Vision responded, we witnessed moments of both hardship and hope. See the incredible images of resilience, determination, and even joy that World Vision’s communicators were able to capture in this extraordinary year.
From the Field
The blessing chain
Animals provided in Guatemala through World Vision’s Gift Catalog program keep on giving after the initial gift. Through a program called Pasando la Bendición, or Passing the Blessing, more families in need receive animals that provide them with reliable nutrition and income.
From the Field
Finding their worth through making chocolate
A group of Guatemalan women in a World Vision savings group had big dreams. Together and with the support of World Vision and their community, they learned how to manufacture and sell chocolate to help provide for their families. In the process, they’re also learning their own worth.