FAQ

SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM

How do I sponsor a child?
Please contact us.
How much is the sponsorship fee?
The sponsorship fee is US$400 annually or US$34.00 monthly.
How do I make payments?
Make checks payable to Promised Land Ministries International P.O. Box 272 Fairport, Ny 14450.
You can also use any of these options.
- By phone at (630) 725-8476 (Roberto's cell phone, where he can manually process the payment).
- Online via secure link to the bank - send Roberto rsantizo@sbcglobal.net your name, email address and donation/payment amount and purpose so he can email you the secure link.
- If you want to use Zelle please use this email new address - plmi.giving@gmail.com
How do I know if I will sponsor a boy or a girl?
Yes, you can choose if you want to sponsor a boy or a girl and also if you would like to sponsor more than one.
How long is the school year?
Our school year runs from Jan 15th till October 15th
What grade are students been sponsored till?
Students have the option to finish high school or a vocational career. The difference is that when they finish 10th grade, they can go for two more years of high school or three more years of a vocational career.
What is a vocational career?
After finishing 10th grade, students have the option to take two more years of high school or three more years for a vocational career. A vocational career allows them to get a diploma as an elementary teacher, accountant and secretary as a well as different types of technical curses related to tourism, nursing, drafting, etc. This degree allows them to start working right away earning an income thus contributing to their household expenses, to support themselves or put themselves through university.
When will I receive the child’s info package?
You will be receiving the information package at the end of April at the latest.
Can I write to my sponsor child?
Yes, you can write twice to your sponsor child per the year.
Can I meet my sponsor child via video call?
Yes, you can meet once via zoom or whatsapp call. Please contact us to set up a meeting.
What does the sponsorship provide?
The sponsorship enables the student to attend our school immerse in a Faith environment allowing him to develop and grow with strong values. Your gift will be used to provide the means and supplies needed to succeed in his educational upbring.
Will I get to see my sponsor child if I come down with a team to work with PLM?
Yes, if you travel with a team to work with PLM, you will have the opportunity to visit with your sponsor child during the sponsorship dinner night on Tuesday.
How long will I sponsor a child?
Our goal is for sponsors to team along with the student till they graduate from high school or vocational career. Some sponsors have felt very motivated to continue sponsoring through university as well.
Can I bring a gift for my child when travelling with a team?
Yes, you can but we encourage not to bring more than two.
What happens when my sponsored child graduates?
You can feel so proud of him or her!!! We hope their desire is to continue in University and we also pray for the sponsor to continue alongside with him or her.
Under what circumstances can a child lose their sponsorship?
If they move to another school.
If they fail the grade.
Expelled for bad behavior
How can I cancel the sponsorship?
Just send us a message saying you will no longer be able to sponsor.

MISSION TRIPS

What do I need to do if I want to bring a team with PLM?
Please contact: j.santizo@plm.gt
How much would a week of mission trip cost with PLM?
The cost could be anywhere from US$750 – US$950
What is the Team Info Sheet
Once you have your final team list you need to fill out this form and send it to us. This is basic information that we will need. Download Team Info Sheet:
What’s included in the ground cost?
All expenses while in Guatemala except for personal expenses and one meal in Antigua.
Do I need to have any experience in construction?
Not at all, you learn as you go.
Do I need to bring tools?
No, we provide all the tools needed for the project.
What would a team do while in Guatemala?
Medical clinics, construction, children ministry, women ministry, sports clinics.
How do I go about buying and bringing meds for the clinics?
Medicine is bought through Blessings International. We will give a standard meds list needed for the medcial clinics. Upon purchasing, you need to provide us with a meds list and letters so that we can submit import permits in Guatemala for the team to bring the meds.
Download Meds letter Meds list:

Link para medicinas: https://www.blessing.org/

OTHERS FAQ

What should I do about exchanging money?
Team members will send the money they need exchange along with the ground cost and other costs to our office in New York. The funds exchanged will be given to each team member after arrival. Should you need more cash. There are ATM’s available and/or you can give the American funds to Jorge Santizo and he will exchange it at a local bank for you.
What is the voltage in Guatemala?
Voltage in Guatemala is 120V as in the US and Canada. Things like battery chargers, hair dryers etc. can be used here without a problem.
Can I do laundry?
Yes, It is possible to drop laundry off to be done at the hotel where we are staying. There is a per pound charge for this service. It is recommended you bring enough clothing to last you for the time you are here. Some people have chosen to bring clothes to leave behind, if you wish to do so we will give you a bag where you can put your clothes and give it to us on the last day. We will wash them and give away.
Will there be internet available?
There are internet available at the different hotels where you may stay at in during the trip and also at our school.
Calling from the US to Guatemala?
Calls can be made as long as they are not too often. This is more for any emergency need than anything else. The numbers to call in Guatemala are Jorge Santizo 011 502 5550-1401
Do I need to bring bedding with me?
You do not need to bring any bedding with you. Bedding and towels are provided.
Will I be able to buy purified water easily?
Purified water is available in local shops everywhere. We also have purified water available for you at the Spring of Hope Mission should you want to fill your water bottles there in the mornings before work. There will also be water available at the work sites and clinic.
Can we eat local food from the street vendors?
It’s best to stay away from anything that is not served at the Mission or in a proper restaurant. Your stomachs are not accustomed too much of what is sold here and can lead to major stomach issues. We don’t want to see you laid up in bed when you are going to want to be out enjoying beautiful Guatemala.
Is there a departure tax when leaving Guatemala?
No.
Will we have to cook while in Guatemala?
PLM has a staff of great cooks at the Mission in San Lucas. People who would like to help in this area are welcome to do so, but in general, your meals will be prepared for you. Dishes on the other hand, are a responsibility shared by everyone.
What if someone on my team has a birthday while in Guatemala?
Please let us know if somebody is having a birthday or other special occasion while here with us. We of course want to make sure they are celebrated the Guatemalan way!
What if I have special dietary needs?
Please inform us in advance if anyone on your team has a food preference or allergies. We will gladly accommodate your needs.
I want to see more of Guatemala. Can I come early or stay late?
There is an abundance of beauty to explore in Guatemala and of course many of you will want to take advantage of the opportunity to get out and see it. You are welcome to meet up with us at the airport at your team’s arrival, or depart on the last day.

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