Guatemala Poverty Indicators:


59.3%

Poverty
Rate

10.2 million Guatemalans cannot meet their basic needs.


9.5%

Extreme Poverty Rate

1 million Guatemalans survive on less than $1.90 a day.


46%

Malnutrition Rate

1.75 million children at risk of stunted growth and health issues.


$417

Monthly Minimum
wage

Low wages lead to insufficient income for a large part of the population.

Political Instability

High levels of violence in Guatemala contribute to political instability by eroding trust in the government, fueling social unrest, and affecting electoral processes. Weak governance, displacement, and economic consequences further exacerbate instability. Addressing this issue necessitates tackling root causes like poverty, implementing security reforms, and strengthening governance institutions.

Political Instability

Natural disasters

Guatemala is vulnerable to various natural disasters, including hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, and landslides. They cause extensive damage to agricultural land, crops, and infrastructure. They also force people to evacuate their homes temporarily or permanently. Displaced families often struggle to find shelter, access basic services, and maintain their economic stability.

Food insecurity

Guatemalan low-wage workers frequently struggle to secure the means for their basic necessities, such as food. With a substantial chunk of their earnings going to housing, utilities, and transportation expenses, low-wage workers often lack the financial resources to cope with rising food prices. The volatility of food costs is primarily due to fluctuating transportation expenses and adverse climate conditions, most notably droughts.

Food insecurity

OUR WORK IN GUATEMALA



Empowering Guatemala's journey out of poverty

Food For the Poor began its mission in Guatemala in 1996, and we have continued to expand our efforts ever since. We’re currently engaged in 40 projects that provide secure homes, offer sources of income, and promote better health and nutrition. With your support, we can continue to impact the lives of thousands of impoverished Guatemalan families positively.

Food Assistance in Guatemala

Food Assistance

FFTP's Guatemala Food Assistance Program provides nutritious food and nutritional education to families facing food insecurity. In 2022, we distributed around 3.6 million rations (equivalent to 37.5 million servings) and increased household access to fresh produce through home vegetable gardens.

Home Assistance in Guatemala

Home Assistance

Our Safe Housing Project provides secure and sustainable homes to Guatemalan families. Since 2007, the project has benefited over 2,600 families across 64 communities, with homes built to withstand seismic activity and featuring sustainable features like solar panels and wood-saving stoves.

Education in Guatemala

Education

Despite high primary school enrollment, completion rates are low, especially in secondary education, and approximately 25% of Guatemalan adults lack basic literacy. FFTP's Guatemala Education Program helps children and families overcome educational challenges and build a brighter future through lifelong learning and community collaboration.

Malnutrition in Guatemala

Malnutrition

Malnutrition hinders physical and cognitive development, making children more vulnerable to illness and learning and behavior problems, and nearly half of Guatemalan children under five are affected. FFTP's holistic approach to malnutrition prevention and treatment in Guatemala empowers children to thrive, building a brighter future for themselves and their country.

Health in Guatemala

Health

FFTP and Caritas' Guatemala healthcare program redefines healthcare, bridging gaps and inspiring lasting change through collaboration, compassion, and community engagement. The Juan Pablo II Maternal and Child Hospital, with over 20 pediatric specialties, is central to the program, ensuring comprehensive care for children and providing maternal and reproductive health.

Micro Enterprise in Guatemala

Micro Enterprise

FFTP's microenterprise initiatives empower Guatemalans to build sustainable businesses and thrive, fostering economic autonomy and community development through comprehensive support. Specific programs like the Tilapia Program address distinct community needs and nurture economic self-sufficiency and advancement.


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Together We Can
Break the Poverty Cycle

Make a meaningful impact in the lives of Guatemalans in need by shopping our gift catalog to provide essential resources, education, and healthcare. Every contribution brings hope, nourishment, and empowerment to individuals and communities.

Take Action Now


Displacement Camp Food Assistance Cite Soleil


Aid Distributed to Guatemala By Year

2022

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $120,078,610
  • Down -39% compared to 2021
  • 2021

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $195,982,149
  • Down -20% compared to 2020
  • 2020

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $243,081,532
  • Down -32% compared to 2019
  • 2019

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $354,623,359
  • Up 93% compared to 2018
  • 2018

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $184,126,390
  • Up 8% compared to 2017
  • 2017

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $170,646,885
  • Up 1% compared to 2016
  • 2016

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $169,580,894
  • Down -36% compared to 2015
  • 2015

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $261,865,541
  • Up 94% compared to 2014
  • 2014

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $135,530,028
  • Down -20% compared to 2013
  • 2013

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $168,526,513
  • Up 43% compared to 2012
  • 2012

  • Aid distributed to Guatemala: $118,332,362