Transformation in Guatemala: Carolina’s Story
Carolina’s Story
- A widow with two teenage boys. Daughter died at birth. Family home sold by deceased husband (alcoholic) before his death. Terroristic threatening by the loan sharks left the family vulnerable during the midnight raids by men demanding repayment. The anxiety and depression and lack of supervision for her sons during her long workweek resulted in physical and emotional decline.
- Employed by Guatemalan based Korean sewing factory. Working 60 hours a week for $260.00 per month, thus making the debt against the house insurmountable. House was open to elements, allowing wind and rain in through the open roof/walls.
- Soon after the death of her husband her youngest son was involved in a bike accident that left him bedridden for eight months and added to the family debt. Her salary did not cover household/medical expenses. Carolina was skilled in sausage making but could not afford the equipment.
How Finding Freedom Helped:
- Hired lawyer to assist with land ownership documents.
- Donated newly built house with a store attached; purchased/donated restaurant-grade pork processing equipment.
- Donated bed for sons, monthly food supplies, and scholarships for schooling fees/supplies.
Outcome:
- On opening day on May 20, 2020, Carolina sold her entire supply of pork sausage, earning enough money to purchase another pig for production. She has become one of only a few sources of food in her village during the Covid-19 crisis and travel restrictions.
- This mother is now able to work from home, care for her sons, and regain her health.
- Her home is legally her own and the family is no longer at risk of being homeless. Her sons are able to assist her with the business while learning the pork production trade. With aid from FFF and guidance from local FFF facilitators, Carolina is demonstrating that it is possible for a woman to be an empowered, successful member of her community.
- With the income earned she has been able to purchase more pigs for processing. Carolina also cooks tamales to sell to neighbors.
- The Korean factory permanently shut down in May of 2020. Without intervention from FFF and her new micro-business, Carolina would be without any income.
