Salesian sisters include educational content related to nutrition

(MissionNewswire) Young women attending Talita Kumi centers in Guatemala had access to better nutrition as a result of a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Rise Against Hunger, a nonprofit that helps underserved people worldwide achieve food security and resilience through nutrition, education and economic empowerment. Close to 700 young women from three centers received the meals in the first half of 2025.

Salesian sisters have also added educational content related to nutrition, food security and healthy eating practices. These topics have been addressed in a hands-on, practical way during training sessions with the students, strengthening their learning and promoting healthy eating habits. The students enjoy the rice’s taste and its versatility in preparing diverse menu items.

Lidia, aged 16, was one of the recipients who received a balanced diet through the food program at the Talita Kumi boarding school. She lives in the village of Chiquixji and is from the Indigenous Q’eqchi’ community.

She said, “I am happy because here I have learned to prepare food in a healthy and hygienic way.” Lidia takes what she has learned and cooks rice tortillas or rice soups for her family. “When I return to my community, I want to teach other families how to eat better with the products they already have at their disposal.”

Sister Margarita Cucul, internal director of the Talita Kumi boarding school in San Pedro Carchá, said, “I’ve had the joy of witnessing Lidia’s personal and academic growth since she joined us three years ago. She comes from a hardworking Q’eqchi’ family dedicated to agriculture and animal care, and she arrived at our school with strong motivation and a deep desire to better herself. Over the years, I have seen Lidia transform into a young leader. She has a real passion for cooking, which is why she has led our kitchen team more than once. She has also learned how to manage inventory, maintain kitchen hygiene and take full responsibility for kitchen operations. It has been beautiful to watch her take the initiative and grow in confidence.”

Sister Cucul added, “The feeding program has made a tremendous difference in our community. It has allowed us to improve the variety and nutritional value of our meals. We now create new recipes with the ingredients we receive, and the girls genuinely enjoy their food. I see their happiness at mealtimes, and it is clear that this program not only nourishes their bodies but lifts their spirits as well.”

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 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.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Guatemala

World Bank – Guatemala