Angel Julajuj Mejia

Type of Project: Loan
Request: Loan to expand current businesses
Location(s): San Lucas Tolimán, Solola, Guatemala
Recipient: Angel Remigio Julajuj Mejia

Angel worked for 14 years as a carpenter for the Catholic Church in San Lucas Tolimán before opening his own carpentry business and small store in his house. Putting his skills to work, he joined a cooperative of spoon makers for some additional income. In 2006, Angel began opening up his home to missionaries and visitors to the area, providing room and board during their stay. His gracious heart has allowed him to serve more than 20 individuals annually.

Angel hasn’t always had this heart, however. After the death of his wife, he found himself deep in the throes of alcohol abuse and spent many nights passed out in the street. In Angel’s words, his life “completely changed when he turned to God for help.” He feels his role and ministry is to reach out to those still struggling with alcoholism.

Angel approached Trade Palms about a multi-faceted loan which would allow him to expand the general store he runs out of his home, expand his organic coffee farm, and expand his spoon making business. These three endeavors give Angel a foundation to make a better life for himself, and in turn engage in the effort of helping others.