Elderly Info

The food crisis in Guatemala is having a devastating effect on the elderly. Without enough to eat, many older people are becoming weak and malnourished, leaving them more vulnerable to illnesses that they cannot afford medical care for. They are unable to provide for even their most basic needs. In many cases, family members are unable to help as they struggle to feed themselves and their own children, leaving the elderly without any form of support and often living in heartbreaking conditions.

Please help us bring them the life-sustaining food and medical care that they so desperately need. General donations are used to ensure that we always have an adequate supply of food, medicine, and funds for meals, necessary medical treatment, and transportation. Monthly sponsorship would help feed one person, once a day for five days a week. Via blog and web album, we'll show you exactly where your aid is going and help you get to know the men and women whose lives you are changing.

If you would like to sponsor an elderly person for $35 a month, please click here and write "monthly sponsorship'' in the Other box. To make a one-time donation for medicine, rent, or other costs, please click here and enter "Elderly Care Program" in the Other box. Any questions can be directed to Amy at amy@mayanfamilies.org


Media on Mayan Families Elderly

Book:
Ancianos : Megan Gette + photos by Rob Bain, Nisa East, Rhett Hammerton and Hiroko Tanaka

Videos:
Mayan Families- Ancianos Stories : Nisa East

Mayan Families Elderly Feeding Care Program : Rhett Hammerton

Facing Hunger: Elderly in Rural Guatemala



Apr 25, 2012

Miguel and Manuel need a dry place to store their clothes

You may recognize dear brothers, Miguel and Manuel, who are part of our Elderly Care Program.

They have recently requested a wardrobe to keep their clothes dry and safe. The rainy season is quickly approaching, we've already had several strong rains, and soon Pana will be in the midst of daily rain showers. For many of our families their homes are acceptable, but often leak during heavy rain storms. Miguel and Manuel are very thankful for their small room that keeps them mostly dry and warm. But it's nearly impossible to prevent all leaks during the rainy season and we're concerned for Miguel and Manuel's belongings. Right now they have no where to keep their clothes and if their home does spring a leak, everything will easily get wet.

The brothers are requesting a wardrobe or hope chest to guard their clothing and belongings and keep them dry during the rainy season. An enclosed wardrobe costs $170 and a hand-carved wooden hope chest costs $108. If you would like to make a donation for these brothers, please go to Donate Now and scroll down.  Enter your donation in the "Other $" box.  In the "Details" box, write "A25 Wardrobe or Hope Chest".

Thank you so much for caring for our elderly! If you have any questions feel free to contact us at familyaid@mayanfamilies.org

Apr 23, 2012

Maria Felipe needs a water filter

We've recently found out that Maria Felipe needs a water filter.  For just $63 you could gift Maria with a brand new water filter, which will give her fresh, clean water for at least a year and a half.  It is customary here for the elderly to drink coffee in the morning and in the afternoon.  Maria cannot afford to buy pure bottled water, it is too expensive.  So, she tries to boil the water to purify it, but her health is frail and she becomes ill easily.  Gifting her with a water filter will help keep Maria healthy and allow her to enjoy many cups of coffee without risk of getting parasites or other water-borne diseases!
If you would like to help Maria Felipe, please go to Donate Now and scroll down.  Enter your donation in the "Other $" box.  In the "Details" box, write "A30 Filter". Thank you so much!

Apr 4, 2012

Thank you for helping Josefa!

Thanks to your generous donations for fabric and thread, Doña Josefa was able to continue with her embroidery.  Your support has helped her earn money for herself and her family!
Thank you!

Thank you for helping the elderly!


Maria Lucas is very happy to receive milk!  Thank you for supporting her!


Dolores and her family are very happy for the diapers the received.  It is a huge relief for the family!

Thank you for supporting the elderly care program!