Distributing Tamale Baskets & Toys, Panajachel, Guatemala

Mayan Family workers and volunteers have had busy days assembling the food for the Tamale Baskets to be distributed this week.

The finished baskets, all wrapped and ready. The last ingredient, a chicken, will be distributed separately closer to Christmas as almost no one has any access to refrigeration.

Long lines began forming early in the morning.

Numbers had previously been given out for people who had been designated for a gift by the donor. But many others waited for hours and days hoping there would be some extra ones with no designation.

Staff and volunteers sorting vegetables.

A young boy clutches the toy he was given as part of the celebration...donated by people in the US who send boxes of clothes and gifts several times during the year. It is also possible to donate money so that toys can be bought locally for children in need.

It is very cold in the mountains in the winter and this baby has a new blanket.

And this little girl found some warm slippers.