Shaday Xechituj Group

Forty-year-old Eva is the secretary of the Friendship Bridge Trust Bank “Shaday Xechituj” in the department/state of Totonicapan. She had two years of formal education, is divorced and has five children who range in age from 8 to 24. Two of her grown children are married and she has two grandchildren.

Eighteen years ago, she started her business raising chickens and pigs. Ten years later, she added a second business embroidering colorful traditional blouses/”huipiles.” Her “huipiles” are popular, so she has one employee who helps her fill orders on time. She also sells in the local market.

Eva requests a second Kiva loan to buy more chickens and pigs as well as a large quantity of thread in various colors.

Eva is one of seven Maya K’iche ladies in the Friendship Bridge Trust Bank “Shaday Xechituj.” They participate in the “Microcredit Plus” program of loans, monthly educational training (business, health, family, women) and bimonthly health care services. They learn to value themselves, which then raises their self-esteem. This was especially important for Eva because she divorced her very abusive husband. Also, since it is challenging to get health care where Eva and her friends live, they are grateful to have access to a visiting nurse who offers all kinds of exams, consults and family planning.

Thank you, Kiva lenders, for lending a helping hand!

In this group: Angelica Hilaria, Catarina , Eva Magdalena , Antonia , Juana , Katty Marisol, Antonia Enfracia