Where compassion meets care.
Las Obras (the works) of compassion.
Hermano Pedro Foundation USA perpetuates Las Obras (The Works) of Saint Hermano Pedro to improve the health and well-being of Guatemalan people living in poverty today.
We are a mission of compassion. Our charitable foundation directs funding from the U.S. to Obras Sociales del Santo Hermano Pedro (Las Obras), a Franciscan mission providing medical, surgical, preventive, and residential care for marginalized and underserved populations in Guatemala.
Healing beyond boundaries.
Legend of an ancient Saint, inspiring compassion today.
In 1981, Franciscan Friars (OFM) founded Obras Sociales del Santo Hermano Pedro, inspired by Saint Hermano Pedro, a Franciscan brother from Spain who founded a hospital, and provided residential solace for the poor in seventeenth century Guatemala.
Carrying only a bell, Pedro walked the streets, ringing it as a call for prayer and charity. That bell has become our symbol of hope, charity, and solidarity with the poor and vulnerable.
Hermano Pedro Foundation USA was founded in 2001 to support this mission and expand its reach. Read more about the Foundation.
Closing the gap in access to care.
In 2024, an estimated 57% of Guatemalans lived in poverty, with an average income of only $6.85 USD per day. Access to healthcare is both limited and unequal: more than 6 million people lack essential health and nutrition services, and many rural and indigenous communities face severe shortages of medical professionals and facilities.
While Guatemala is the largest economy in Central American and has grown at an average rate of 3.5% over the past 10 years, income disparity persists.
Guatemala’s gross domestic product (GDP) was $113 billion in 2024 (compared to a GDP in Texas of over $2 trillion).
Focusing resources for the greatest effect.
Our focus is on the pressure points where our giving can impact the well-being of Guatemalans with the greatest effect. By closing the gap and expanding access to care for marginalized groups, we strengthen health, which empowers employment and fuels economic growth.
Hermano Pedro Foundation USA is highly rated by Candid and Charity Navigator, demonstrating our commitment to transparency and accountability. Over 97% of donations are transferred directly to Las Obras, with only nominal costs for foundation operations.
Medical Care
People across Guatemala find health and hope thanks to the medical services of Las Obras. Thousands of patients each year gain access to primary care and specialized medicine, preventive care, clinical diagnostics, surgery, laboratory services, pharmacy services, child nutrition recovery, and so much more.
Residential Care
Las Obras is a refuge of love and mercy, providing residential assistance to vulnerable Guatemalans of all ages. Care is given to those with disabilities, youth and adults in addiction recovery, abandoned elderly, and underprivileged children. Comprehensive care includes access to education and spiritual support.
