How should we go about giving out toys and school supplies to the children in guatemala?

Question

We would like to give gifts out individually . We will be in antigua and panajachel. We also have many new socks and flip-flops

Answer 1

I don't recommend giving toys out to kids individually unless they are all the same toy. It will create jealousy and fighting. I would contact a local orphanage as others have suggested. However, if you are taking Spanish classes at a school there, contact them and ask if they will be doing in Villiage visits where you can take some toys. Ask how many kids are in the village so you will have enough toys. Ixchel Spanish School is great. I went with them to a local villiage to deliver toys and play games with all the village children.

Answer 2

Wow im so happy your taking gifts to Guatemal. Easpecialy Panajachel because that's the part of Guatemala im from. Anyways I advice you to give them anything that comes from your heart becuase they are really thankful and really don't care of the cost of the gift or what the gift it is there just thankful for you taking the time to give them something

Answer 3

Please don't give items individually as that encourages begging - and  in turn, the children come to associate foreigners with gifts.

Your best bet is to contact a local school or community centre or hospital and deal with them.

Answer 4

the have several churches or american organization the help with the distribution of donations for kids it is best to go thru them, it is not only overwhelming since there are so many kids in poverty, but heartbreaking too.

Answer 5

There is an orphanage just outside panajachel that could probably assist you with this.

http://www.eaglesnestint.org/

Answer 6

http://www.semillasdeamor.org/founder/fo...

a very good place if you want help

Caty

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Semillas De Amor S-150 • 8424 NW 56th Street • Miami, FL 33166 • [e-mail]

Answer 7

If you are in Antigua, I heartily suggest you go to the Semillas de Amor orphanage on Calle Panorama, just outside of town.  They take in lots of little kids that are victims of abuse and neglect or just abandoned.  To contact them ahead of time you can stop by Cafe No Se on 1ra Avenida and ask for Julio, (he speaks perfect English) and tell him that you have some toys and supplies and whatnot.  He helps run a charity called Los Ninos, and would be a great resource.

Answer 8

I would contact http://www.mayanfamilies.org . they do a good job.

Answer 9

I agree with the others, donate them to one of local orphanages or schools. You do not want to turn respectable people into beggars.  There are also several non-profit organizations that could offer suggestions as well.

School supplies are ALWAYS needed!!!!