Supporting Nurse's Training for Women in Guatemala

Approximately 35 percent of Guatemala’s population lacks access to basic healthcare services, according to USAID. These numbers are even higher among rural, indigenous populations, among which rates of stunted growth for children under five rises to 70 percent.

Kateri scholarship recipient Sandra did not need a study to tell her that her community was without healthcare, and she has a plan to do something about it.

When she applied for a Kateri Fund scholarship she said, “Since we live in a rural area, we don’t have the necessary resources to be able to frequently go to a medical center, or out of embarrassment the people don’t go. Many do not speak Spanish. They need a person they trust to accompany them in order to be comfortable.”

As a member of the community, as well as a native Kaqchikel speaker, Sandra can more easily build that sense of trust. Her plan is after graduation as a professional nurse to open a pharmacy and provide basic health care in her community.

Sandra also explains that this career path is benecial to herself and her family. Her husband works as a farmworker, and she works selling snacks. With a nursing degree, she is better able to help her family nancially and take care of her young son.

Her education will not only empower her to build her career and improve the wellbeing of her family, but the eects go far beyond her. She will use her skills to provide essential services to her community. 

Help us expand our Healthcare program to more young women like Sandra who want to serve their community.

Be ready for the GlobalGiving Little by Little Campaign! From April 8-12, when you give up to $50 to support the Kateri Fund Healthcare Program, @GlobalGiving will match your generosity at 50%. Watch for more information on how to give your support.