YOUR $200 DONATION TO "PURCHASE" A STOVE FOR A MAYAN FAMILY IN GUATEMALA WILL LESSEN THE INCIDENCE OF BURNS, RESPIRATORY DISEASE, AND EYE PROBLEMS; CREATE A SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT AND REDUCE THE NEED FOR THE DAILY COLLECTION OF FIREWOOD BY WOMEN AND CHILDREN.
In 2013, SGR began a project in the Central American country of Guatemala to address respiratory illnesses and eye problems among some of the world's poorest people with the greatest exposure to indoor, open cooking fires.
Prior to the installation of a simple, vented cinderblock stove, before and after CO readings were done between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. - the hour during which most food is prepared. In the Maya villages of Xepatan and Saquiya dangerously high levels were found to be
36.375 particles per million (the World Health Organization recommends levels between 3 and 9 ppm).
These efficient but inexpensive stoves lessen the need for lots of firewood, helping to conserve the environment, as well as save time and energy for women and children. The risk of burns, especially among young children, is greatly reduced; and, due to the home's now smoke-free environment, fewer respiratory illnesses and eye problems occur.
St. George Rotary Club is currently preparing for their 11th trip to this Central American country during the week of June 1-8, with as many as 20 Rotarians and friends of Guatemala. You are invited to come along.
In addition to building stoves, some simple dental procedures will be provided to those in need. Midwives will to taught resuscitation techniques for unresponsive newborns. Other services will also be provided.
Your $200 donation will help dozens of families. Please, will you help?
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