María Coj – Thrivent Builds – Fred Ebbesen

María lives with her husband, José, and their 8 children, Santos (20), Toribio (19), Marta (17), Luis (16), Agustina (11), Juana (9), Aura (7) and Marcela (5) in a small community in Chimaltenango. While José works in the fields, María takes care of the children and the household chores.

As part of Habitat Guatemala’s smokeless stove program, families receive a stove, to help them improve their health by giving them a smoke free environment.

María explains; “I used to cook on an metal barrel, over and open flame. Causing me red eyes and several burns in my hands.” When she found out about the project through a relative member, she did not think it twice, and signed up!

She feels satisfied with her new stove; “It is working great! No more smoke inside our kitchen, I do not burn myself anymore and I can save wood.”

María refers to her time with the volunteers; “They worked really hard and carried all the materials to build it. It was a fun time, they played with the girls,” she continues, “Thank you for all your support! May God bless you.”