Monday, November 23, 2009

U.S. Pledges 15 Million in Aid to Guatemala


Guatemala, one of the poorest countries in Latin America, is experiencing some difficult times. Guatemala has endured a food shortage since May. Recently, severe drought has contributed to malnutrition, particularly in the nation's eastern region. Food staples such as maize and beans have been reduced by half. The United States has pledged 15 million dollars to Guatemala in order to feed thousands. The aid will mostly go toward feeding young children under five, pregnant women and mothers who are breastfeeding.

About 25 children have already died of malnutrition in the eastern region so far this year and the government estimates that about 400,000 families are "at risk of food insecurity." Mexico, Venezuela, and Brazil also offered to send aid back in September.

For ways to help go to Mayan Families

Online Sources: CCTV, CBC News

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