Airline Ambassadors has been working in Guatemala for many years and a recent trip prompted our re-association! See this LINK
Project summary
The “Caritas Sonadoras” nutrition feeding center program of FUNDAMAYA, contributes to the education & physical well-being of each student for their best performance. One of the biggest factors that reduce development and learning capacity in Guatemalan children is malnutrition, we have identified that learning is faster if the child is completely healthy, we want to provide a good balance between good nutrition, development and learning of each child through a healthy diet.
What is the problem?
Poverty is the main factor of malnutrition, but the health system, national education and its deficiencies in being able to cover and support the most vulnerable make education take a backseat. Thus the cycle of poverty continues. Children who attend the Fundamaya Nutrition and Education preschool centers are Indigenous children who often do not speak Spanish at home. They speak the Mayan dialect Kakchiquel. They do not have a chance to learn Spanish before they start school, they are behind.
How will this solution solve the problem?
Provide the opportunity for Indigenous children between 4 & 5 years old to attend an educational center where they will receive adequate nutrition, a headstart on their education, and learn healthy habits. The children come from impoverished families who cannot afford the food they need and to help them educationally. The preschools give the children the opportunity to not only learn educational skills but also has classes on Mayan custom and traditions which gives them pride in their culture.
Long Term Impact:
The ages of 4 to 5 years are very important and crucial for the good development of children. Teachers of public schools have told us that the children who attend the preschool are able to adjust quicker and have good learning skills. The children who attend the preschools will have the opportunity to have sponsorship for their continued education. Often becoming the first ones in their families to be able to graduate. Education is the answer to overcoming poverty and providing a better future
