Guatemala: Tzanchaj

SCHOOL RESUMES IN HURRICANE
DEVASTATED TOWNS

Hurricane Stan ravaged through Guatemala in early October of 2005. The devastation in Panabaj and Tzanchaj, two small pueblos on the shores of Lake Atitlan was immense. A huge mudslide originating from the top of a mountain swept through the towns at 5 am. The mudslide wiped out hundreds of homes, left thousands homeless and buried over 1,000 people who were unable to escape its path.

Relief efforts of local and international organizations helped more than 200 families get temporary homes, access to clean drinking water and assistance with basic necessities, including food. The school however was not being addressed, even though more than 300 children would need a place to attend school when classes resumed on January 15th.

Pura Vida committed over $20,000 to ensure the school in Tzanchaj was not only restored but expanded with a second floor. The additional classrooms on the second floor are accommodating 250 more students. The families are thankful and relieved that their children’s education will not be delayed because of the hurricane. They know that if they are to have advanced opportunities for their future, they need to complete their education.