Healthy Home Kit – Edith Tohom

Edith lives with her husband, Efrain, and their three children, Ileana (14), Milton (12) and Nehemías (5), in a small community near Lake Atitlán, Sololá. While Efraín works in agriculture, Edith takes care of the children and weaves traditional clothes.

As part of Habitat Guatemala’s Healthy Home Kit, families receive a smokeless stove, a sanitary latrine and a water filter, to help them improve their health by giving them adequate access to proper sanitation, potable water and a smoke free environment.

“I used to cook on an older stove for over 10 years. It consumed many wood, which was very costly.  With the new one I have been able to save wood. It is easier to cook, because it is big and has plenty of space, enough space to cook my beans and vegetables.” Edith has felt a difference in their health; no more eye irritation because the smoke no longer stays inside the kitchen.

Before receiving their new latrine, she explains that they had to share one with other relatives. “Now, we have our own latrine. It is more comfortable and private.” The family has also felt a difference with their water filter. Before they drank water directly from the sink, causing them intestinal diseases. Now, it is easier and safer to drink potable water from the filter. “The boys no longer get sick, they can drink water whenever they want,” says Edith.

Edith refers to her time with the volunteers; “They were very fun to work with,” she continues, “We are grateful for your support, thank you for our kit. Our family is happy.”