Adding to basket
The economy in the department of Chimaltenango is based on the agricultural products of corn, beans, and vegetables. Another important part that stands out is the production of handmade items like traditional woven products made from cotton and wool, and pottery. Most of these products are made by women.
One of these women who makes textiles is Wendy, aged 32. She is married and the mother of 3 children, aged 9 to 14. They are getting a complete education. Wendy is a weaver of “huipiles”, traditional blouses. Since these textiles are very detailed, Wendy employs 2 women and together they deliver 3 “huipiles” a month. Since she was only able to go to school for 2 years, she didn't have the opportunity to get a formal job. With this income, Wendy is able to cover the family expenses. To continue expanding the business, she is asking for her 6th Kiva loan to buy thread wholesale.
She is a member of the Puente de Amistad communal bank “Las Margaritas Comalapa". In addition to Wendy, there are 7 other Maya Kaqchiquel women in the group. They go to monthly educational trainings as a part of the "Microcrédito Plus" program (loans, education, health care). The trainings for financing and investment help the women to run their textile and tortilla businesses. Other areas of impact for them are empowerment, self esteem, leadership and enterprise.
The loans financed by the kiva lenders are very important. Thank you!
In this group: Wendy Carolina, Marta Albertina, Flor De Maria, Dilia, Odilia Florencia, Glendy Azucena , Fidelia , Maria Simeona
Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteer Ellen Donohue. View original language description.
