Our First Newsletter 

We are excited to publish our first monthly newsletter!  We look forward to using this as a tool to communicate current and upcoming projects, celebrate the completion of projects, and to share what your support of Guatemalan Harvest is accomplishing.   

Non-Profit Status 

Guatemalan Harvest, Inc. has filed an application with the IRS for recognition of its tax exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.  Guatemalan Harvest has no reason to believe that the IRS will deny our application, and we fully expect to have IRS recognition by the autumn of 2009.  Further, assuming that the IRS issues a favorable determination on our charitable status, the IRS recognition will have retroactive effect to the date of our formation.  Therefore, any gifts or donations to Guatemalan Harvest should be income tax deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.    

It is an exciting time for the children at New Dawning Christian school.  No, there is not a new school teacher or new books; it is something school children in the US take for granted everyday, but something very scarce in Guatemala - a playground! 

Guatemalan Harvest's Playground Project has broken ground.  Reinforced concrete block is being set and the foundation of the playground area is well underway.  This playground is a first in the community and will provide a safe area for the children to learn and play.  It will bring smiles to children's faces and happiness to the hearts of parents whose children can enjoy something unique to the area. 

The entire project costs approximately $6,700 and we still need to raise $2,800.  It is our prayer that we can bring this to completion by Spring 2009.  We at Guatemalan Harvest are excited about this project and we feel truly blessed to be able to glorify God in this small way.      

Your financial contributions will bring to completion something of value for beyond money.  If you would like to donate (by Pay Pal or check) or see pictures of the progress, please visit www.GuatemalanHarvest.org. 

Well, maybe it is not right around the corner, but it is certainly close enough for us to begin planning our first Easter Blessing Baskets Project!  This is a great opportunity to share the message of Christ, along with some much needed items, with families identified as most in need in Panajachel, Guatemala.  We will work with Pastor Benjamin Meijer (in Panajachel) to help determine the families in most need and handle distribution.   

At this time we are prayerfully considering which items will be included in the Blessing Baskets.  We will keep you updated when the plans are finalized.   

Shipping Items to Guatemala

As you may know, there is a great need in rural Guatemala for many of the items you and I have stacked up in our closets... blankets, shoes, clothes, etc.  As we reach out to supporters for donations, one of the most common thing we hear is "I have so many items I would love to donate to families in need...".  However, it is generally cost prohibitive to ship those items to Guatemala.