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.
A notable initiative is 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. Dr. Michael Polifka, the Medical Director of ASOSAP, brings extensive experience in international medicine to these efforts, ensuring effective medical support and training for the community. 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 PokoMaya artisan cooperative, which supports local women economically and preserves cultural heritage, 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 eStar Global Foundation and their ministry, that more people in Thailand may hear the Gospel and experience transformative change in their lives and communities.
ABOUT FGC
Friends of the Great Commission (FGC) is a registered charity with a team of skilled administrative and accounting personnel dedicated to using their talents and expertise to enable people to follow God’s calling to fulfill the Great Commission of Jesus Christ. We have been providing a place for individuals, ministries and organizations to thrive in ministry. Our vision is to work together to help the impoverished, further education, and help fulfill the Great Commission of Jesus Christ.
We are passionate about helping fulfill the Great Commission. Our team of skilled administrative and accounting personnel are dedicated to simplifying ministry. We bring admin relief to our agents and projects and release them to spend more time on ministry work. Through collaboration, we provide compliance, clarity, and relief to ministry.
We welcome any Christian ministry or project to contact us to discuss how we can collaborate. We believe we are stronger together.