Parishioners collected and delivered gifts

(MissionNewswire) Gifts were delivered in the days before Christmas to the most disadvantaged children from the territory connected to the Holy Spirit Parish in Guatemala City, Guatemala. This was coordinated by the Association of Mary Help of Christians and was made possible thanks to parishioners who collected and delivered the gifts. In addition to gifts, association members shared a snack with the children during their time together.

A Salesian said, “The children and their families were grateful for the support during this Christmas season. The children enjoyed the gifts and snacks and a moment of happiness with their peers and caring adults. It was also an opportunity for parish members to give back and support their local community. We are grateful for our donors who are always willing to help.”

Salesian missionaries working and living in the country have been providing for the basic needs of Guatemala’s youth while helping to break the cycle of poverty in their lives. They work extensively with poor youth and their families at youth centers, orphanages, parishes, and primary and secondary schools. They also operate technical schools, vocational training workshops and two universities in the country.

Rural poverty hasn’t changed much in Guatemala during the last 20 years, according to the World Bank. While 70% of Guatemalan citizens live below the poverty line, the number is as high as 91% for its Indigenous population. Many rural residents in Guatemala have only completed sixth grade. This is largely due to the expenses required to send children to schools which are often located far from their homes.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Guatemala – Delivery of gifts to many disadvantaged children

Salesian Missions – Guatemala

World Bank – Guatemala