The life story of Fr Anton Grech was set in motion from the age of 21 when he was sent to Guatemala during his formative years for the priesthood. Now, 27 years later, over 50,000 lives have been significantly transformed a number of Mayan communities in Guatemala thanks to his tireless efforts and initiatives to support communities in desperate need across the country.

Fr Anton Grech with one of the Mayan Communities.

Arriving in Guatemala amidst the chaos of civil war, Fr Anton quickly adapted to the diverse subcultures and languages of the regions he served. Today, he primarily works in a remote, jungle-like area among the Mayan communities of Guatemala, where he has initiated various projects to address the challenges that people face daily.

One of the most pressing issues in the region is the exploitation of women in a culture where men hold dominant power. This reality has left many young girls, unprepared for parenthood, trapped in cycles of trauma. Many are thrust into motherhood while still struggling to understand how to care for themselves.

To combat this, Fr Anton established a women’s home within his parish, providing vital support to pregnant adolescents. Beyond guiding them through their pregnancies, the home offers programs to help the girls heal from past traumas, build self-sufficiency, and reintegrate with their families. “It’s not easy,” Fr Anton says, “but with the help of psychologists, we try to heal them and give them the tools to rebuild their lives and return back to their families”.

Young women’s home in Guatemala.

In addition to the women’s home, Fr Anton launched a series of critical projects, which will receive support from the SiGMA Foundation, including several crucial community initiatives. One project involves funding a plastic baling machine for a recycling program aimed at reducing waste in an improvised landfill that serves as the home for around 60 families. 

“Garbage Village” in Guatemala.

Another key initiative is the establishment of a theatre operating room in a local clinic, which will allow for life-changing eye surgeries. Additionally, clean stove ovens will be distributed to replace dangerous open-fire cooking methods, which contribute to 3.8 million deaths annually. Each stove will be provided with an eco-filter water bucket, ensuring access to clean drinking water for these at-risk communities.

Through these initiatives, Fr Anton Grech continues to make a profound impact on the communities of Guatemala, bringing hope and light to those who need it most.

Get involved with the SiGMA Foundation

The SiGMA Foundation was founded in 2019 and is the philanthropic arm of SiGMA Group with a mission to empower underserved individuals and communities around the world through fundraising activities, charity work, education programmes, and skills training. Find out more here.