The Pokomchí people of Guatemala face a daily struggle against extreme poverty, a reality exacerbated by the lingering effects of racism and decades of war. Indigenous groups across Central America, including the Pokomchí, have been left behind in development, with seven out of every ten indigenous individuals living in conditions of severe poverty. The United Nations Human Development Index ranks Guatemala 127th out of 187 countries, reflecting the nation’s widespread poverty, which is even more pronounced among indigenous communities. In areas inhabited by the Pokomchí, poverty rates soar above 90%, with life expectancy significantly lower and infant mortality rates alarmingly higher than those of non-indigenous populations. The lack of adequate healthcare, education, and infrastructure further compounds the challenges faced by these communities.

Hope of the Pokomchí is a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing poverty among the indigenous Mayan Pokomchí people of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala. The organization’s efforts focus on health and education services, including health posts and a dedicated health team that supports approximately 15,000 mountain villagers. Their work has significantly reduced maternal and infant mortality rates, improved the health of severely malnourished infants, and addressed life-threatening conditions while reducing common diseases like diarrhea and pneumonia. Chronic patients benefit from ongoing care for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, which has improved their quality of life and prevented premature deaths.

Some key initiatives are the provision of health care and Christian education. Especially important within Christian education is our after school children's program which runs 6 months out of the year, where we teach children English, Bible, Computer Sciences. We also lead an initiative known as the PokoMaya artisan cooperative, which provides Pokomchí women with stable income by creating products from recycled materials and traditional fabrics. This project not only empowers local women economically but also helps preserve and share Pokomchí cultural heritage. The cooperative's logo, the Monja Blanca, symbolizes peace and beauty, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Pokomchí.

The Shekinah Center, another key project, is a hub for education and spiritual growth, offering workshops, conferences, and training programs based on biblical principles. The center also supports community education through health teaching sessions and vital infrastructure projects, such as latrines and rainwater collection tanks, which enhance hygiene and prevent disease. We have three North American doctors who come once/ year to partner with us in medical and dental outreach, mentor our Pokomchi nurses, and monitor our chronic patients. Additionally, Hope of the Pokomchí’s Bible Outreach and Discipleship programs provide spiritual nourishment and leadership training, further empowering the Pokomchí people to build a better future.

Ministry Overview:

Hope of the Pokomchí is a non-profit focused on alleviating poverty among the indigenous Mayan Pokomchí people of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala. They provide vital health and education services through health posts and a dedicated team, significantly improving maternal and infant health and addressing chronic conditions. Key initiatives include the the provision of health care and Christian education, after school children's programs, and the Shekinah Center, which offers educational and spiritual development. Their Bible Outreach and Discipleship programs also foster spiritual growth and community empowerment.

Prayer Request:

Pray for God's abundant provision to empower Hope of the Pokomchí in transforming lives and bringing hope.