Bienvenidos a Los Amigos de Los Romeritos

Welcome to the Friends of Los Romeritos

     In Guatemala City, a small miracle is taking place every day – Los Romeritos. Once, it was the dream of a ragtag collection of street urchins. They shared their dream with Meggan Parkinson, an American college student, and Jaime Marcia, an El Salvadoran refuge — a dream that they might have a safe place to stay off the dangerous streets. Today, it is a vital, growing program, providing safe shelter, care, education, training, food, and love. It enriches the lives of hundreds of children every year. Read the story of Lourdes.

 Currently, children get help with schoolwork, learn computer skills, receive health and nutrition information, have medical and dental checks, develop musical talents, learn crafts, and explore their cultural heritage.

     In Zona 1, one of the poorest parts of Guatemala City, children come to the center to be in a supportive environment safe from the streets. In addition, mobile workshops take instruments and arts classes to students in other parts of the city when it is too dangerous for them to travel on city buses.

     Los Amigos de los Romeritos (Friends of Los Romeritos) is an all-volunteer organization that operates primarily in and around Portland, Oregon. It is supported by friends throughout the world. We sell crafts produced in Guatemala’s cottage industries, and collect contributions to support the programs of Los Romeritos. 100% of all donations and proceeds of all sales (after small administrative expenses) are sent to Los Romeritos and provide a large portion of their financial support. We are inspired by the memory of Meggan Parkinson who fell in love with the street children of Guatemala City and believed that each of us can make a difference in the world. All contributions are tax-deductible thanks to the support of the Oregon City United Methodist Church where Meggan attended as a child.