In many of Guatemala’s poor, mountainside communities, parents simply cannot afford to send their children to school.

Instead, these children must stay home to take care of their younger siblings—or perhaps even join the workforce. Escuela Proyecto La Esperanza, a primary and secondary school in Jocotenango village, is working to change this.

The school supports about 450 students between the ages of 5 and 16, giving them access to a high-quality education, which, for some children, includes English classes. However, because most of the students receive little or no food at home, the school also provides filtered water, a mid-morning snack, and a nutritious lunch. Students receive regular health screenings to ensure their wellbeing, and have access to a Safehouse if needed.

With support from Grand Circle Foundation, Escuela Proyecto La Esperanza hopes to continue in its mission to use education to bring more opportunities to Guatemala’s at-risk children.