Yaxwinic (Tzeltal Maya for “People of the Land”) is a coffee cooperative formed by Yashalúm graduates to export organic, shade grown and “fair trade” coffee.
The Canadian Embassy in Mexico City funded the building of over 200 improved firewood stoves (Lorena stoves) in the Mayan communities in 2004. An additional amount of USD$15,000 has been granted for 2007 for the promotion of organic vegetable gardening, composting latrines, and the construction of more Lorena stoves.
Habitat for Humanity International brought into the area by several of the college graduates, has built several homes together with the Mayan people.
Non-profits from Belgium funded a project to bring potable water from the mountains for the women’s student residence, Casa Santa Maria, and to 6 Mayan villages.
Waterlines, USA funded the water project for the Boys’ student residence, Rancho Santiago, and 5 villages.
The Mercy Sisters, USA Sr. Maria Campos has recently joined the board of Mission Teaching Foundation and is soliciting a grant for a weaving cooperative centered at the women’s student residence, Casa Santa Maria.
Global Pediatric Alliance provides educational, technical, and financial support for community-based health projects in Latin America. Since 2004, GPA has collaborated with Yashalum, in Yajalon, Chiapas, Mexico, to offer training in Western medical techniques for Tzeltal-speaking midwives. The collaboration has increased awareness of the role midwives play in public health. Read more about their fine work at www.globalpediatricalliance.org