CRS History in Guatemala

Catholic Relief Services has been working in Guatemala since 1963, serving the poorest and most marginalized communities in the country. Initially, CRS programs focused on humanitarian and relief assistance to meet the basic needs of the poor. After the signing of the Peace Accords in 1996, which ended Guatemala's 36-year internal conflict, CRS Guatemala began incorporating programs to transform social and economic inequality.

Today, CRS remains committed to our vision of supporting communities as they build a culture of peace, solidarity and justice. Working to increase incomes, improve health and education, and protect and promote human rights, our programs address many of the root causes of emigration. Collaborating with church institutions and local partners, CRS Guatemala focuses on agriculture and the environment, health, education, emergency preparedness and management, HIV, peacebuilding, civil society and advocacy, and water and sanitation.