Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty
Public school is “free” in Guatemala, yet the poorer families cannot “afford” to send their children to school. Why is that? There are many requirements to attend school. Books, uniforms, specific shoes, school supplies, hygiene items, these items are required. Computers, printers, and internet access are additional requirements for junior high and high school. If a student is missing any of the items, they are penalized. The penalties quickly add up resulting in a failing grade.
Bethel’s education sponsorship program was born with the belief that all children deserve an education in spite of their economic circumstances. For $35 a month, you can support a child in grades K through 6th. For $60 a month, you can support a child in grades 7th through 12th. By enabling a child to study, you are making a better future possible. Many of our students are the first in their families to study, which means that they are unable to get help from their parents with homework. Bethel has four tutoring centers to meet these needs. These centers are free for any student to come get the help they need.
Education
Crossroads School
In 2022, we opened our very first school for children with disabilities. Sadly, there is such a stigmatism against people with disabilities in Guatemala that even schools will label special needs children as unteachable or make it too difficult for them to be there. Our school, Crossroads, provides a flexible curriculum for students to study at their own pace, the physical help each student needs throughout the day, and transportation to and from school. All of this is done to remove the obstacles that are often placed before a child living with a disability, and to give them the education and dignity that they deserve.