Hi, my name is Mackenzie and for the last four years I've been living in Tzununá, a small village on the shores of Lake Atitlán, home to a vibrant but underserved indigenous Maya Kaqchikel community. Despite the natural beauty of this place, this region faces high levels of poverty and malnutrition, which disproportionately affect women, elders, and children. According to recent studies, malnutrition impacts over 50% of Guatemalan children under five, and in rural areas like Tzununá, the rates are even higher.
Many families here struggle daily to put food on the table. The lack of government support, resources, and access to nutritious food makes it difficult for children to thrive and for women and elders to maintain their health and dignity.
I am part of a group of ex-pats living in Tzununa and we want to do our part to be good neighbors and utilize our networks and resources to do help those most in need. It is a small act of reciprocity for our Kaqchikel neighbors welcoming us in their homeland and a humble way to give back to this beautiful land that sustains us.
I, along with my friend Cheyo (native to Tzununa) and the rest of our team at Casa Awänímä, are organizing our fourth annual holiday giving campaign to distribute canastas básicas—baskets of essential food items such as corn, rice, beans, panela, and other staples—to 200+ women and elders in Tzununá. These baskets will provide much-needed sustenance for families during the most challenging time of the year.
In addition to the food baskets, we’ll also bring joy to the Tzununa's youngest residents by gifting toys to the children, spreading happiness and hope to those who need it most.
Why This Matters:
- Combatting Malnutrition: Providing basic food items directly addresses the urgent nutritional needs of families.
- Empowering Women and Elders: Supporting the most vulnerable members of the community strengthens families and fosters resilience.
- Spreading Joy: Simple gifts can have a profound impact, reminding children they are cared for and valued.
- Intercultural Connection: Showing up as good neighbors and supporting those in need is part of our civic duty as ex-pats living in Guatemala
How You Can Help:
Your donation will directly fund the purchase and distribution of these essential items. Every dollar counts:
$100 can provide canasta básicas for 5 women or elders.
$50 can help bring toys and smiles to 25 children.
$30 provides 6 watermelons (and other fresh fruit!) to serve to the women and children on the campaign day.
$20 provides 1 canasta basica
Together, we can ensure that no one in Tzununá feels forgotten this season. Your support will make an immediate and lasting impact on the lives of this beautiful and resilient community. Let’s come together to make a difference! Donate today and help us bring hope, nourishment, and joy to Tzununá.
Thank you so much for your generosity!
Here are some photos from last year's event:
