On Friday, May 29, 2026, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and UNICEF announced a new regional initiative to improve access to safe water, sanitation, hygiene and digital education in Belize, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua through the WASH and Digital Education Program.
The launch took place in Guatemala City, with the participation of Sister J. Anette Dennis, First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency; Elder Patricio M. Giuffra, a member of the Central America Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ, and his wife, María Eugenia Giuffra; Olga Isaza, Deputy Regional Director of UNICEF for Latin America and the Caribbean; as well as representatives from the Ministry of Education.
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Elder Patricio M. Giuffra said, “We believe that true transformation occurs when institutions and communities work together with a common purpose: to care for people and protect the future of rising generations.”
Sister J. Anette Dennis highlighted the ongoing collaboration between both organizations and quoted the Relief Society General President: “When a woman is blessed, a family, a community and a nation are blessed. When a child is blessed, it is an investment in the future.”
Key outcomes of the project include:
- 84,600 direct beneficiaries, including students, teachers and school staff
- 33,500 mothers, fathers and community members
- 100 members of local water and sanitation committees
- An additional 32,000 students in Guatemala expected to be reached through behavioral change initiatives
Olga Isaza stated, “Access to safe water, sanitation and quality education transforms the lives of children today and protects their future.” UNICEF also shared that, over a five-year period, the initiative is expected to cumulatively benefit 97,500 students, 2,750 teachers and school staff, and 167,500 community members across participating countries through the sustainable strengthening of services and education systems.
This collaboration underscores the shared commitment of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and UNICEF to serve children and vulnerable families through sustainable efforts that strengthen communities and contribute to a safer and more promising future for rising generations in Central America.