Home location in Guatemala

Guatemala is a country marked by extremes and sharp contrasts. Within Guatemala’s borders there are more different regions and climatic zones than in hardly any other country – ranging from its tropical jungle in the north and black beaches on the pacific coast to its highlands, dominated by several volcanoes.

It is also Guatemala’s cultural identity that makes it unique. The majority of its population is formed by Indigenas, direct descendants of Mayan tribes, who are still deeply rooted in their traditional culture. In fact 21 different Mayan languages are still spoken.

Taking into account only its economic figures, Guatemala is one of Central America’s more developed countries. However, looking beyond the country’s capital with its great number of international companies, Guatemala proves to suffer poverty that resembles the situation in countries such as Haiti or Nicaragua.

The children and staff of NPH Guatemala gathered in front of the new school buildings

Since the colonial occupation, Guatemala’s history has been marked by various dictatorships, as well as suppression and exploitation of the indigenous population. Until recently the country suffered from a bloody civil war that lasted more than 35 years and during which the army committed several cruel civilian massacres. Despite the peace treaty signed in 1996, the aftermath of the pain and sorrow will mark the country for many years to come.

In 1996, the Guatemalan government gave permission to NPH to establish a home for abandoned children, and the orphanage Hogar San Bernardo was founded. Since then our family has continued to grow, and by now 340 children have found a new home with NPH Guatemala.

In 1997, thanks to generous donations we were able to buy new property for our home. After budget shortages delayed the construction several times, in August 2003 the basic buildings were finally completed and we were able to move into our new home. The new children’s home, named Casa San Andres is situated 1500 meters above sea level in Guatemala’s highlands, about an hour from Guatemala City.

Apart from the school buildings, dormitories for the children, the kitchen and the large dining room, we have a well-equipped library and a computer room. There is also an office building, several staff and volunteer cottages, and four workshops, where the older children receive vocational training (such as carpentry and welding). We also have a clinic, where we not only serve children and staff of NPH, but also give medical assistance to people from the surrounding communities. The construction would not have been possible without the support of large groups of Canadian volunteers, who have helped us with their financial donations and working spirit!