Adoptions from Guatemala by U.S. families were suspended in January 2008, resulting in a heartbreaking situation for vulnerable children. Not only are thousands of children without homes or the prospect of a family, but facilities traditionally supported through international adoption fees have lost critical funding. Nevertheless, government officials continue to expect private hogars (orphanages) like those supported by WHFC to care for these children without providing any financial assistance. As a result, devoted caretakers face a desperate struggle every day to keep these loving homes open. Without them, these children would be unlikely to survive.

In response, WHFC launched the Rayo de Esperanza (Ray of Hope) Campaign. The funds cover operating costs for two hogars and continued support for child sponsorship programs that help keep impoverished families together. It is unclear when international adoptions will resume in Guatemala. For this reason, we continue to work with our partners to identify long-term, sustainable solutions to provide destitute children with a ray of hope.