Solar Midwives and Families

In the past four months, we have provided more solar power and water filters to rural families with young children than ever before. Ruben (Solar Project Manager), Keila (Water Filter Manager and Teacher), Erika (Head of the ACTOCHI Midwives), and several volunteers have been working tirelessly to bring solar power to the most remote villages in central Guatemala.

I was in Guatemala for most of December and January. Just before I was set to leave in mid-January, Erika called with unexpected news—the most remote villages wanted to host a celebration for our solar lights. I rescheduled my flight to attend, and what I experienced was unforgettable.

Our team, the ACTOCHI midwives, Ruben, Keila, their children, and the entire village gathered for two deeply moving ceremonies. The homes where we met were lined with long pine needles, a sacred Mayan tradition reserved for the most meaningful events, such as Easter week. It was an incredible honor. Families shared how their lives have already changed and their hopes for their children’s futures. The midwives spoke about how this program strengthens their communities and their bonds with the families. Several women shared that, with solar lighting, they can now weave traditional Mayan fabrics at night to sell in the market, bringing in much-needed income.

I have spent nearly 20 years bringing solar power and other technologies to rural families, and these past four months have been the most challenging—and the most rewarding—of my career. We are now reaching families who may never see another outside intervention in their lifetimes. We bring the gift of light and clean water, often to families expecting a new baby. The midwives emphasize that delivering babies by candlelight or flashlight is simply not as safe as delivering them under solar-powered light.

Keila teaches families how to maintain their long-lasting water filters, which, with proper care, should serve them for years. Since these filters are made in Guatemala, replacement parts are readily available.

Many of the families we serve have never traveled beyond a few miles from their homes. They work as day laborers in cardamom, corn, and bean fields, earning money only during harvest seasons. With solar lighting, they can now take on additional work in the evenings and earn a few extra dollars each week—an opportunity that was previously impossible.

I wish each of you could have been at these ceremonies. The gratitude, joy, and sense of connection were profound.

This work is only possible because of you. On behalf of the families we serve and everyone involved, thank you for making this life-changing program a reality.