Anna from Guatemala

Anna* grew up in extreme poverty, unable to attend school because her family needed her help at home. Last year, she was walking through corn fields during her errands, when a man grabbed her and raped her. Her family was devastated and reported the rape to authorities and were referred to our Care Centre in Escuintla.

While helping her heal from the trauma of rape, a resulting pregnancy, and the criminal process, we fought for her right to an education. Her father finally agreed to let her study, but she was rejected by the school, as “her type” (child-mothers) would be disruptive. To facilitate care for Anna’s special-needs baby and get her enrolled in school, our team arranged for them to live with an aunt, who lived near a welcoming school.

 Anna has grown confident in school and recently made the 5th grade honour roll! She deeply loves her son and has become a responsible mother, all while working to heal from the trauma she endured. Our team continues working to give Anna and her son the best chance to succeed, and we look forward to reuniting the family when it is safe and wise to do so. Even in the midst of tragedy, God is the Restorer of hope!

 * name and photo changed to protect privacy