Feeding Children and Families

Irene Vázquez, 24, is a mother of five living in an informal settlement in Los Cabos, Mexico. Originally from Guerrero, she lost her parents at a young age and was only able to complete second grade, never learning to read. Today, she faces the daily challenge of caring for her children with very limited resources.
Each day begins at 5:30 a.m. Irene prepares food for her husband, a construction worker, before walking over an hour to take her three oldest children to school. Without transportation or a stroller, she carries this responsibility while also caring for her two youngest children.
Before joining Fundación Sarahuaro’s Children’s Kitchen Program, Irene struggled to provide food for her children during the school day. With little time to prepare meals, she spent about $500 pesos (approximately $30 USD) each week on food from the school store—an expense her family could barely afford.
Everything changed when a neighbor invited her to the program.
For the past five months, Irene’s children have received nutritious meals every day. They now enjoy foods like hotcakes with scrambled eggs and vegetables—meals that support their growth and development. Irene has seen noticeable improvements: her children have gained weight, look healthier, and are more engaged in school.
Her daughter Ester, age 6, now loves attending school and never wants to miss a day. She even told her mother she wishes school were open on Saturdays.
Thanks to this program, Irene has found relief from financial stress and peace of mind knowing her children are well nourished and ready to learn. What was once a daily struggle has become a source of stability and hope.
With continued support, more families like Irene’s can access nutritious meals, improve their health, and build a brighter future through education.