The state of the COVID-19 pandemic in La Limonada
La Limonada is a section of Guatemala City, Guatemala where over 60,000 people, including more than 240,000 children, reside. Located in a ravine, it is the largest urban slum in Central America and many of its residents are underemployed or living below the poverty line.
The view from the recently installed windows at Hope Renewed International’s HOPE CENTER
Already struggling from these issues, the COVID-19 pandemic has only worsened the situation of La Limonada’s residents. They have not been able to follow health and safety guidelines during the pandemic due to their living and working situations. In an area where people are living in poverty, those that are fortunate to have jobs cannot jeopardize their livelihoods for their own safety. Currently the majority of Guatemala City remains categorized as Covid19 level RED with >20% positivity rate.
Most people in La Limonada live in small, close quarters, sometimes with many different family members in one home. These situations greatly increase the potential for exposure and contraction of the virus.
Accessing information has also hindered efforts to combat the virus as many people do not have internet access or cell phone service to receive accurate and up-to-date information. This started with health and safety guidelines early in the pandemic and has continued to the present when Guatemalans are having difficulty getting vaccinated due to the lack of planning, the online registration process, and the shortage of personnel.
Clean water is scarce in La Limonada. The only options are to have safe water delivered, drive to get it (although few people have cars), or climb the nearly 130 steps out of the ravine and haul it back home. Without clean, safe water, people are unable to implement proper sanitation and hygiene, both of which are vital in protecting against COVID-19. The water filtration system in Hope Renewed’s HOPE CENTER will make a huge impact for many of the residents of La Limonada.
At Hope Renewed International we are trying to improve the lives of the most vulnerable communities in Guatemala, including people living in La Limonada. In an area where food, water, and medical support are scarce, our work has never been more important than during the COVID-19 pandemic.
We are grateful for those who have contributed to the funding of the DSF Sewing Center and Water Filtration Store. We are so pleased to report we are making progress on construction and have sewing instructors ready to serve! We ask for your ongoing prayer and financial support as we work to make this facility operational!
