The thousands of families that have been displaced in Guatemala by the ravages of Tropical Storm Agatha and its ensuing mudslides and flash flooding will receive help in their native tongue from local non-governmental organization Wuqu' Kawoq.

The Bethel-based organization, which has field workers in Guatemala now, will be mobilizing an emergency response team as soon as the airports open later this week, according to Kathy Rohloff, mother of Medical Director Dr. Peter Rohloff.

The organization, founded in 2007, provides medical services in the native Mayan language of Kaqchikel. Their work providing clean water, language preservation and growth and midwifery in the native tongue sets Wuqu' Kawoq apart from other medically minded NGOs in the area.

Reports from the fact-finding crew are revealing that potable water is the largest concern as of right now. Food supplies are scarce and roads are so badly damaged by the mudslides and diverted rivers that supplying the villages will be a challenge in the coming days. Many villages are using schools as shelter for the countless displaced persons whose homes have been destroyed.

Wuqu' Kawoq is focused on fundraising efforts that will directly benefit those that have been effected by the devastation. Money raised will funnel into aid for clean water, food supplies and rebuilding efforts in the Highland and Lake regions, Rohloff said.

Donations are being accepted via their website,

www.wuqukawoq.org.