Atitlanecas Group

From a young age, Dolores learned artisan work could be an opportunity to get ahead. At 35 years of age, she is married and the mother of three children between six and 13 years old who are in kindergarten and second and eighth grades. Dolores only studied for two years of education because of the poor financial situation of her family. From the age of 13 she started doing embroidery on "huilpiles" [traditional blouses] and 13 years ago she formally set up her business selling her products to wholesale stores. 

Currently, she is able to deliver about four pieces per month. Occasionally, Dolores also makes hair clips with decorative stones, an activity that supplements her income. Her husband works as a security guard. 

Dolores is requesting her seventh loan from Kiva in order to buy fabric and thread in bulk with the aim to increase her production. Dolores' goal is to continue strengthening her business and, in the future, to have a shop of her own to be able to sell her products directly and improve her family's finances. 

In the "Atitlanecas" Friendship Bridge communal bank there are eight women who speak Spanish. The majority of them make a living making textiles and artisan products. For these women, the "Microcredito Plus" program is an essential tool because it empowers them through topics like saving, not getting into too much debt, and good investment. They also receive a bimonthly nurse visit where they are offered all kinds of health services. 

Thanks to the Kiva lenders. 

In this group: Magdalena , Micaela , Dolores , Maria , Rosario , Dolores , Luisa , Josefa

Translated from Spanish by Kiva volunteerAlix F. View original language description.