WHAT OUR CLIENTS DO IN CENTRAL AMERICA
ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING THAT CAN MAKE MONEY
Most of our clients are poor women with four or more children and family members living with them. They operate their businesses in the “informal” economy”. They are involved in many kinds of businesses.
In Nicaragua, depending on the location of the clients, these include: the re-sale of seafood, basic grains, and milk products in the local markets or to fishery companies, operating small grocery stores (“tiendas”), the purchase in bulk of new and used clothing for resale, making prepared foods for sale in their communities and markets, raising small animals (e.g., chickens”) for sale, arts and crafts, carpentry work, party piñatas, making clothing for special occasions (Baptisms, confirmations, etc.), making masks, sale of cell phone, car repairs and beauty salons.
In Guatemala, the most important economic activities are agriculture, handicrafts and commerce. These include: corn, beans, wheat, and fruits, especially apples and peaches which clients purchase for re-sale in the markets. Handicrafts include: purses, toys, hammocks and clothes, as well as musical instruments, masks, furniture, shoes and jewelry. These products are sold primarily in markets.