Fight Rising Malnutrition in Rural Guatemala

In 2021, Hilda López became concerned when her second child did not seem to be growing as expected. She connected with Wuqu' Kawoq, which was just starting the Family-Centered Nutrition Program in her community of Nueva Concepción, and the López family became one of the first participants. Working together with the Wuqu' Kawoq team, Hilda was able to support her son in reaching a healthy weight and height. 

When her third son Samuel was born in 2024, Hilda noted signs of delayed growth and again reached out to the Wuqu' Kawoq team for guidance and support. Samuel, who is 14 months old, joined the program in February 2024 and was diagnosed with moderate growth delay. 

Samuel not only receives nutritious foods like beans, eggs, and nutritional supplements, but his mother Hilda also has the opportunity to refresh her understanding of vital aspects of care for her son, like nutrition, hygiene, and breastfeeding. Through monthly visits, Samuel receives follow-up to ensure his healthy development.

Cooking with products from her small garden, Hilda is able to provide her family with varied and healthy meals in spite of the economic challenges of buying vegetables in the community. In May, Samuel reached his ideal height and weight. There is still much work to be done in the coming months to ensure that this progress continues on a promising and sustainable path.

Hilda did not have the opportunity to receive formal education and wishes for a different story for her children. She strives for Samuel and his siblings to have health and opportunities for a promising future. She hopes that with the care and support they receive, her children can achieve their dreams, whether becoming nurses, teachers, or another profession of their choice.