Many families in Guatemala are still recovering from the devastating effects of a 36-year-long civil war in the region. Communities have lost loved ones, livelihoods, and land. Guatemala's Fondo de Tierras department has been providing those most affected by the war with new land to restore their livelihoods. However, much of that land lacks its natural forest and good soil, making even basic agriculture difficult and unsustainable. 

There are 96 families living in Brisas del Mar. They live off their land and the estuary, in extreme conditions with food insecurity, lack of drinking water, and lack of electricity. This project will provide the first consistent jobs to this community.

An indirect benefit that has already been gained from our partner, Restoration Era, having talks with the government about working here is that the government has promised to bring electricity to the community and improve the water well for drinking water. 

The soil in this area is sandy, and the region is experiencing desertification. Our partner will focus on planting pioneer species that grow well in the sandy soil, establishing sustainable agroforestry projects using native species, and putting in place silvopasture systems so that the community can benefit long term.