Christmas is almost upon us, and many supporters have written asking if it is still possible to send a Tamale Food Basket to a family this holiday season...yes--there is still time! You do not need to be a sponsor to send a food basket--a general donation to the Christmas Tamale Basket program will provide for a family in need who would not otherwise receive one. The Tamale Baskets give enough food to feed a family of 10 people, and are a great way to ensure that a family can enjoy the traditional Christmas meal. More than that, the baskets are in many cases a much needed supplement for families who have been struggling to keep food on the table during this particularly difficult year. More information, and instructions for donating a basket, can be found on the Mayan Families website, here.

Due to many requests, this year we have also provided a small list of toys that can be purchased here in Guatemala as Christmas gifts for children and sponsored students (you can find the list here). If you would like to make your sponsored student's or a childs holiday a little brighter with a gift, we will be happy to purchase it and send you a photo of the student as they receive it, please include your e-mail address and student number.

Finally, if you would like to send a Tamale Basket, toy, or other donation in someone else's name this Christmas, we have provided several holiday cards which can be printed out and given as gifts. There are two options that can be used for any type of donation, and four that are designed for specific gifts--Tamale baskets, water filters, fuel-efficient stoves, and beds. You can find them all here, at MicroMundo.org, a website run by 3 of our volunteers. We will have these on our Mayan Families web site sometime early next year. These are great for the people on your list who already have everything!

Thank you, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and have a wonderful New Year!