Guatemala

Guatemala

HIAS workers observe current humanitarian trends along the Suchiate river, which divides Guatemala from Mexico. September 13, 2023. (Selia Montes for HIAS)

Years Active

2023-2025

HIAS Guatemala has ceased operations

Due to the U.S. government’s decision to halt humanitarian assistance around the world, HIAS has been forced to cease our operations in Guatemala. This is not something we anticipated or wanted, and we recognize the profound impact this will have on the communities we serve.

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Guatemala has high rates of internal displacement due to both violence and frequent natural disasters.

Since its inception in 2023, HIAS Guatemala has been a vital source of humanitarian support and mental health care for displaced people facing urgent needs. HIAS Guatemala promoted community-based protection and economic empowerment through its work with UNHCR and other private donors. HIAS Guatemala partnered with Airbnb.org to provide emergency housing and a safe place to stay for those fleeing violence and persecution, helping them find stability as they rebuild their lives.

Our Work

HIAS Guatemala assisted displaced people by providing comprehensive case management services. HIAS also provided community-based mental health services, as well as programs to combat violence against women and girls.

A HIAS staff member speaks with a woman and girl about HIAS' programs to address violence against women and girls. End Violence Against Women and Girls | HIAS

We help women and girls access their full potential and live free from violence by supporting survivors, mitigating risks, and engaging communities in change.

Magdiel Galeano Gómez, a refugee from Nicaragua now living in Costa Rica, works on a product for his business, Jeff Creative. (SideXSide Studios/HIAS)

Our economic inclusion programs ensure that refugees have economic opportunities to earn sustainable income and start their lives anew.

Support Community Mental Health

HIAS’ community-based mental health programs promote the well-being of individuals, families, and communities affected by crisis and conflict so they can heal and rebuild their lives.

A HIAS staff member speaks with a woman and girl about HIAS' programs to address violence against women and girls. End Violence Against Women and Girls | HIAS

We help women and girls access their full potential and live free from violence by supporting survivors, mitigating risks, and engaging communities in change.

Impact Story

HIAS Guatemala staff talk to a participant of the HIAS and Airbnb program and her children at the HIAS Guatemala office. Guatemala City, June 11, 2024. (Lizbeth Marroquin/HIAS)

In Guatemala, HIAS and Airbnb Help People Find a Home

Airbnb and HIAS developed an emergency accommodation and humanitarian assistance partnership in 2018. In the last six years, the program has supported close to 60,000 people in Guatemala, the U.S., Ecuador, Poland, Colombia, Peru, and Guyana.

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Partners

The Shapiro Foundation

Airbnb

IOM

UNHCR

HIAS’ services are free. If someone tries to charge you for services claiming they represent HIAS, please report it at our confidential email address: ethics@hias.org. HIAS has a zero-tolerance policy on fraud and corruption. 

For any other inquiries please email us at info@hias.org.

Together, we can help create a world in which refugees find welcome, safety, and opportunity.

Your gift will help us provide vital services to refugees and asylum seekers and advocate for their fundamental rights so they can rebuild their lives.

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