Education
Guatemala has the lowest literacy rate in Latin America.
Through support of existing educational programs, our organization hopes to improve the level of education in Guatemala. Most villages only offer school through what we would consider the 6th grade. Children in small aldeas (villages) who wish to pursue further education must move to a larger pueblo (or town). The cost of living away from home and travel expenses make this impossible for most families to afford.
Refuge currently supports 2 full-time teachers in Sarstun. The enrollment of children has more than tripled since the teachers have begun their work. A second school has been built on property owned by Refuge International. It has been exciting to see the growing committment to education in Sarstun.
Refuge is working with the Guatemalan Department of Education on a new program to bring "junior high" via DVD to remote villages. The Telesecundaria program( or televised secondary school) will allow children living in remote villages to continue their education beyond the 6th grade without leaving their homes.
How can you help? Underwrite a teacher. Provide school supplies or Spanish books. Donate TVs and DVD players in good condition. Supplies are collected and shipped to schools in the areas where Refuge is currently working. We welcome your suggestions on group or classroom "adoptions." Please call us to learn more.
