Link for Health

Like I said, writing checks is never fun, but here is a short-list of grassroots NGOs who are helping people in Guatemala right now.  Where I can, I note exactly how funds are being used by these groups.  It’s a cliché, but the smallest donations will go a long way at the moment.

In all cases, it is best to donate to an organization’s non-restricted/general fund.  They will know how best to channel the funds.  Click on the group’s name, to access their donations page.  All of these organizations can provide a tax-receipt for US donors.

As Green As It Gets:  Is channeling help and funds directly to help their farmers in and around San Miguel Escobar.

Common Hope (Familias de Esperanza):  Is currently supporting the relief efforts east of La Antigua.  They are using funds to provide essentials (diapers, food, water, etc.) to those who have lost their homes.

ConstruCasa:  Home building NGO – will be working in the mountains around La Antigua, to aid those who have lost their homes.

Mayan Families:  Family support charity in the Lake Atitlan region.  They will be directly aiding families displaced by this storm.  Many of these families were also displaced by Hurricane Stan in 2005, and Mayan Families was there for them then, too.

Rotary Clubs of Guatemala:  The Rotary Clubs in Guatemala are all hard at work providing first-line disaster relief.  To support their efforts, please follow the link to the Rotary page of the Ft. Collins, Colorado chapter.  The Ft. Collins club has strong relationships with chapters all over Guatemala, and will channel the funds to the areas with the most need.

Safe Homes for Children:  Working on relief for Chutinamit families left homeless by the storm.

Wuqú Kawoq:  Health care providers, who provide culturally sensitive care to indigenous individuals, using their native dialect.  The group is providing medical care, clean water, engineering support and psychological counseling around the Lake Atitlan and Central Highlands regions.