Gerson was born into a family with few resources. He lived in a remote community in Baja Varapaz, where opportunities are scarce. His parents work long hours as day laborers in other people’s fields to put food on the table. At 8 years old, Gerson had never been to school.
In Guatemala children like Gerson face a bleak future. They are caught up in cycles of poverty and illiteracy. But you can build a brighter future for them. And, until the end of December, your donation will be matched.
Gerson’s future started to shift when one of his brothers got married. His new sister-in-law knew about Vida Schools, since some of her relatives had attended. Despite their own limited resources, she suggested that Gerson and his brother live with them so they could have the opportunity to study and build a future filled with hope.
Gerson’s parents struggled with the idea. But they believed that it was a sacrifice worth making to give him the opportunity of a brighter future.
Shy and worried, Gerson started school a few weeks after classes had started. He was older than the average first grader. He didn’t have basic school supplies. He had never been in a classroom. He didn’t know how to read and write. But he was grateful for the opportunity to learn.
Every morning, Gerson puts on his only pair of rubber boots and walks to Vida Nueva School full of hope. At school, he’s found more than just classes – he has found a place where he feels valued, where he receives a daily breakfast to fuel his learning, where he has come to know God in a deeper way.
Will you be part of Gerson’s brighter future? You can help him dream beyond the walls of his home.
“His life is a reminder that education and love can transform realities,” says Gerson’s teacher. “His story is not just that of a child in poverty, but of a young warrior who, with faith, effort, and gratitude, is carving a path toward a brighter future.”
Thank you for being part of transforming realities for children in Guatemala. Thank you for breaking cycles of poverty and illiteracy. And thank you for showing children like Gerson that their future is worth it.
(Until December 31st, every dollar you give to will be matched – doubling your impact. And every dollar will be used to build a brighter future for kids like Gerson.)