Even during the most challenging times, there is optimism and joy to be found. During times like these we think of children like Gladys. Her story is a perfect example of a happy new beginning—and it’s the kind of story that amazing folks like you helped make possible. Gladys is a sweet second-grader who lives with her family in a village in Guatemala. She has learned to get by with very little. Her father works hard to support the family, but sometimes, her parents struggle to put food on the table. They have access to water only two or three times a week, and just for a few hours at a time.

Life changed for Gladys when a Meal Center, powered by Feed the Children and friends like you, opened in her village. That’s where she goes after school for hot meals that make her feel happy and full. She especially loves the oatmeal with milk and the chicken with cucumber salad. She has also received vitamins, anti-worming medicine, shoes and even a backpack full of school supplies.

When Gladys is nourished and has the supplies she needs, she can focus better in school—especially on her favorite subject, math. Her mother, Maria, is so thankful for all you’ve done for children in her community. She says, “I’m very grateful to Feed the Children for all the support. If it wasn’t for that, we wouldn’t have enough to feed our children. Thank you, because now we can see our children happier and growing better and healthier.”

Donations help children like Gladys can have nourishing food to eat. Please consider making a donation to help more children get the food they need.

In honor of Gladys and her Guatemalan heritage, we’d like to share this special, authentic dessert recipe of Torrejas and Syrup.

Torrejas and Syrup

Enjoy this delicious Latin American version of French toast made by the people of Guatemala.

Torrejas

  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons of flour
  • 12 thick slices of brioche
  • 2 cups of vegetable oil

Syrup

  • 2 cups of sugar
  • 3 cups of water
  • zest from one orange
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice
  • 3 cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 ounces of raisins
  • 4 ounces of prunes

Torrejas

  1. Beat the eggs until they form stiff peaks.
  2. Add the flour, mixing it in carefully.
  3. Cover the bread with the egg mixture until it is completely covered.
  4. Fry the bread in hot oil, making sure to turn it over to cook on both sides.
  5. Once cooked, place on a plate with a paper towel to remove the excess oil.

Syrup

  1. Bring the water to a boil.
  2. Add the sugar, orange zest, allspice, cloves and cinnamon.
  3. Finally, add the raisins and prunes.
  4. Place your Torrejas in the syrup.
  5. Serve with a prune in the center and sprinkle with sugar.

If you are able, please take a moment today to make a donation. Any gift, no matter the amount, can be the difference between hunger and hope for a child.