Projects begin in Popabaj, Patzun Thanks to the generosity of several Rotary Clubs in CT, MA, RI, OR and the Guatemalan Families Association in the UK, projects in Popabaj began in early July and will take about six months to complete.  The first component to be built are the vented stoves and then the latrine followed by the gray water filters and the water system.  As of the end of July, 90% of the stoves were constructed.  Two training sessions to 8 community leaders took place on how to construct the stoves and they shared their knowledge with other people in the village.  There were also two training sessions on the use and handling of the stoves and the importance of enviromental conservation.  Initial test of the levels of carbon monixide were don in each home so we could measure the difference once the stoves were being used.

Construction of the latrines will begin in early August, following training sessions on hygiene, picture here. Families were trained on the use and maintenance of latrines, as well as educaional talks about human waste the the importance of hygiene.

Chlorination Systems Installed

The installation of six chlorination systems serving 8 communities was also completed in July, thanks to support from the Aspen and Everygreen, Colorado Rotary Clubs.  These chlorinators reduce gastrointestinal illnesses and skin diseases and are an important component of good nutrition. Community Development Committees (COCODES), the Water Committee members and community plumbers received training. Staff from the municipal health center will follow up on the proper use of the systems to make sure the amounts of chlorine used by he communities are correct and the quality of the water is perfect.  Each family will pay a modes fee to buy the chlorine.