I am going on a mission to Guatemala and I need ideas for simple gifts for the translators/other volunteers?

Question

It should also be something that will not be too bulky to pack and won't break the bank.

Answer 1

I'm dissapointed to see so many people suggest so many useless things! It's very obvious that they have never lived amongst the people in these countries!

I bring all the extra used clothing, shoes, dresses, etc that I can fit in my luggage. I have never seen so many eyes light up when I tell them they can pick items out of the suitcase! They treat them like they were brand new, and they are ever so thankful. I'm sure that they would take a used pair of shoes over a scented candle or a decoration any day.

For extra special gifts, i've brought small keyring flashlights (LED lights), or swiss army type kinves. I've bought them in bulk on eBay and they have always been very appreciated. Also, bring postcards of the area where you are from as it will help to show them where you are from.

I'm assuming that you will be working with the poor. The rich will always scoff at small gifts, but the poor will always remember you.

Best of luck on your trip.

Answer 2

I have gone on mission trips and I have been to Guatemala. My suggestion to you would be to give something like nice sented candles. Electricity goes out in Guatemala often so candles are useful. They also are very pretty to display in ones home. It's also something many people down there wouldn't spend their money on. If they needed candles they would most likely just buy something cheep to fit the purpose of producing light when the power is out. You could also make a little card to attach to the candle about being a light in the world. Here is Matthew 5:14-16 in both English and Spanish.
Have fun and good luck!

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:14-16

"Vosotros sois la luz del mundo; una ciudad asentada sobre un monte no se puede esconder. Ni se enciende una luz y se pone debajo de un almud, sino sobre el candelero, y alumbra a todos los que están en casa. Así alumbre vuestra luz delante de los hombres, para que vean vuestras buenas obras, y glorifiquen a vuestro Padre que está en los cielos."
Mateo 5:14-16

Answer 3

I've got two suggestions for you . . . 1) something that your hometown is known for that could be displayed in the living room or bedroom, and 2) a picture frame would be great! since you'll be together most of the time during the mission there would definitely be moments that you really want to capture and want to take a look back in the future

Answer 4

Guatemalans are beautiful people... I would bring something useful and from your area of the country...Picture book from your state. Chocolates...Does your state specialize in anything? Something christian may be appreciated... I'm a believer in gift of food.... buy dinner, bring sweets for the kids. Sports hats... Baseball cards... something that could be traded if they didn't like/need it... But you are already giving of yourself...most importantly bring your kind heart, and your gracious spirit. Another thing you might do is find out what is needed for the mission, bring used clothes, bandages, aspirin, teddy bears.

Answer 5

why would you give them stuff that is no use for them . i have been to guatemala ,iraq and other parts of the world that lack alot. shoes ,clothes, its true they cherish that more than baseball card and junk like that . not everyone is rich but they will love you for that and if your nice and true to them they in return will do the same. buena fortuna ...