Guatemala faces one of the highest rates of chronic malnutrition in Latin America, with nearly 50% of children under five experiencing stunted growth due to long-term food insecurity, according to UNICEF.¹ Poverty and limited access to nutritious food disproportionately affect Indigenous and rural populations, where families often rely on subsistence farming and unpredictable harvests. The World Food Programme reports that over 3 million Guatemalans are food insecure, and recurring climate-related events such as droughts and floods make it difficult for communities to grow consistent sources of food.² These challenges highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions that increase access to reliable nutrition.
In San Andrés Semetabaj, access to fresh produce is extremely limited, forcing families to rely on low-cost, low-nutrient foods.³ According to the FAO, nearly 70% of rural households struggle to maintain sufficient and diverse diets, and high transportation costs to markets prevent many from obtaining fresh fruits and vegetables. Local schools and community centers lack resources to provide consistent nutrition programs for children and families. Without local food production methods or adequate support systems, communities remain vulnerable to hunger, poor health outcomes, and economic instability.
To support long-term food security, HXP Builders will partner with local leaders to construct garden towers, an innovative vertical gardening system that allows families and schools to grow fresh produce in small spaces year-round. These towers will provide a sustainable source of fruits and vegetables, reduce dependency on costly market food, and empower community members with hands-on agricultural skills. By increasing access to nutritious food, strengthening self-reliance, and promoting education on healthy eating, this project will directly improve the well-being of the community and foster long-lasting resilience.
Sources:
¹ UNICEF
³ FAO