Greetings!
A month ago we wrote to you regarding the COVID-19 crisis in Guatemala. Back then there were 20 cases and one death.
As soon as the first case was discovered on March 13 the Guatemalan government prepared orders to keep people safe. Besides social distancing and sanitary practices, the airport, borders, schools, offices and businesses were closed, public transportation was stopped, a curfew from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m., and only grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations could remain open.
More precautions added on April 13 include persons 60 and older are on a "stay at home" order, a travel ban between all departments and masks are mandatory.
Yesterday President Giammattei removed the travel ban for all but four departments and changed the curfew from 6:00 p.m. to 4 a.m. Today Guatemala has 289 cases and 7 deaths.
We are relieved to report all of our employees and their families are safe. As promised, even though our buildings are closed employees continue to help our patients, students, and families. Nurses are monitoring patients and delivering medicine and supplies when necessary. Scholarship students and their families received food and hygiene items last week.
Pictured above is Carmen receiving her diabetic medicine. She said "Thank you and God for bringing medicine to me. I pray for you and everyone at the organization to continue helping us."
Employees were paid their full salary in March and we will continue to honor our commitment throughout this crisis. They are grateful for this support and they remain loyal and dedicated.
It's difficult to describe the extent of the hardships realized by families here and the hopelessness they feel when there is no work, no income, and no food. Continuing the closures create severe economic problems for thousands of people living day to day and it worsens day by day.
Thank you for your generous response to our last message. We appreciate your support.
If you would like to make a contribution to help our patients, students, and families please click here...
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We know that together we will turn this crisis into greater possibilities in the near future.
Sincerely,
