Pueblo a Pueblo     In August of 2004 I met up with an organization,  Pueblo a Pueblo.  Pueblo a Pueblo is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to empower individuals, organizations and communities in Latin America.  The project I have become involved with is the Hospitalito de Santiago Atitlan. The hospital was closed after a military conflict in 1990.  As the town is very remote due to Lake Atitlan, health care is accessible only after 1 1/2  hour boat ride and 20 minute bus ride up the mountain.  A woman giving birth with complications at 2 in the morning has to find someone with a boat that has a full tank of gas willing to make a dangerous crossing, and if she should still be alive upon reaching the shore, a vehicle must be found to drive her up to the hospital.  Many women and infants die seeking this medical attention.  Pueblo a Pueblo working with the local grassroots organization, K'asleemal (Tz'tujil for 'Life') are trying to change this.

In 2005 I joined the Board of Directors of Pueblo A Pueblo.   A portion of proceeds from sales benefits Pueblo A Pueblo (+/- 10%).  Usually whatever Vida Dulce can afford.  For 2006 that amount was $8000.

Tragedy Strikes October hurricane Stan wreaked havoc on this beautiful country.  At midnight after 6 days of torrential rain, a section of the mountain over the canton of Panabaj broke away causing a huge mudslide covering the town and the people living there.  Only a few survived to tell the story.  The hospitalito was spared with 8 feet of mud at the entrance, 4 feet of mud in the waiting room.  1400 people missing presumed dead.  The once poor canton of Panabaj now declared a cemetary. (Photo Right:  Entrance to Hospitalito blocked by Mud)

This tragic set back has brought out the best in the people of Santiago and the American ex-pats that are volunteering there.  The hospital has temporarily relocated in an old backpackers hotel.  The community has pulled together supporting each other through the aftermath.  Many have lost their homes, their belongings, and some their loved ones.  Little by little, this resilient community is pulling back together.  (Photo Left:  Temporary Plastic housing sponsored by USAid.  Meant for no more than 3 months.  More than 1 yr after the mudslides, this temporary housing is still in use.)

Check out the website of Pueblo a Pueblo for more stories of courage and compassion.  Personal accounts of sadness and triumph.  See how you can make a difference in these courageous peoples lives.    Pueblo a Pueblo