The Committee “La Esperanza” (The Hope) was formed more than two years ago and has been working with Fundación Paraguaya. Most of the group are involved in productive activities, but also includes among its members three ladies who are just starting their businesses. The types of activities represented include retail businesses selling fruits and vegetables; handicrafts; empanadas filled with beef, chicken, ham, or cheese; grocery items such as noodles, sugar, flour, oil and soap; clothing; medicines; and other products. The members yearn to provide a better future for their children. As a result, they double their efforts in acquiring the materials needed for the development and growth of their businesses.
It is always interesting to hear about the life experiences of some of the committee members, such as Sra. Maria M.. Maria sells herbal remedies, an activity that is practiced by many in Paraguay because of the popular consumption of these elixirs. Her products are frequently offered in various forms at the suppliers’ market. On other occasions, with the help her of children, she travels to different places to find and gather herbs in order to increase her earnings.
In addition to Sra. Maria, the other group members and their businesses are listed below:
1. Susana F. – clothing sales
2. Marlene B. – liquor sales
3. Patricia G. – vending kiosk
4. Gisela V. – street vendor
5. Sindia L. – vegetable sales
6. Zulma I. – clothing sales
7. Teodora D. – clothing sales
8. Blanca V. – grocery store
9. Maria de Jesus C. – sewing supplies
10. Alicia F. – fruit sales
11. Faustina S. – cheese bread sales
12. Rogelia E. – empanada sales
13. Maria M. – herbal remedies
14. Marta B. – sewing supplies
15. Claudia B. – dressmaker
In this group: Susana, Marlene, Patricia, Gisela Valiente, Sindia, Zulma, Teodora, Blanca, Maria De Jesus, Alicia, Faustina, Rogelia, Maria, Marta, Claudia

Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteer Ronan Reodica. View original language description.