COUNTRIES
Guatemala
Guatemala is a country in Central America bordered by Mexico to the north and west, the Pacific Ocean to the southwest, Belize to the northeast, the Caribbean to the east, Honduras to the east and El Salvador to the southeast. Guatemala’s abundance of biologically significant and unique ecosystems contributes to Mesoamerica’s designation as a biodiversity hotspot. The country is also known for its rich and distinct culture, which is characterized by a fusion of Spanish and Indigenous influences.
COUNTRY FACTS:
- Capital: Guatemala City
- Population: 16.91 million
- Language: Spanish and Amerindian
- The first chocolate bar was invented in Guatemala during Mayan times
Our History in Guatemala
Food for the Hungry started operating in Guatemala in 1976 in response to an earthquake that killed more than 23,000 people through the provision of clothing, food and plastic sheeting for temporary shelters. After officially establishing the office in 1981 to focus on child development, Food for the Hungry concentrated on meeting the needs of orphans and widows who had been affected by Guatemala’s civil war. Today the work in Guatemala has expanded and deepened to focus on long-term community development. Currently Food for the Hungry Guatemala operates currently operates in 112 communities in the regions of Alta Verapaz, Quiche and Huehuetenango and serves 88,384 individuals.
Stories From Guatemala

Rosa’s story
Look what happens when you empower a mom like Rosa! Rosa dreamed of being able to provide for her children and lift her family out of poverty in Guatemala. “I longed to have my own business,” Rosa says. “But I didn’t have the resources to start one.” Then someone extraordinarily kind like you

Nourishing Dreams in Guatemala
In the rural countryside of Guatemala, two unique families once struggled through poverty. Thankfully, the children are now growing and their parents are hopeful for their families’ futures. Let’s take a look at how this transformation was made possible in two Guatemalan communities through support of donors like you. In