Vilma Similox’s Holiday Recipe

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Every morning at 5 am, Vilma Similox stands behind a table covered with fruits, juices, eggs, milk, yogurt, and boxes of vitamins, ready to greet customers with an eager, bright smile … and a delicious fruit smoothie!

The 37-year-old mother of three runs her fresh juice stand in Chimaltenango, Guatemala, where her unique creations of smoothies and vitamin-enhanced juices help to pay for rent, household expenses, and school fees for her children.

Four years ago, Vilma wasn’t smiling so brightly. Her husband worked in construction in the city, bringing home a meager income that was often not even enough to pay the rent on their small house.

And then Vilma got an idea.

She took out a FINCA loan and bought a small table and juice presser. Day after day, Vilma would set up her stand outside her house, working until noon offering juices and smoothies for her customers. As her business grew, she took out additional FINCA loans, and was able to buy a bigger juicer and an extractor.

Vilma’s business has done so well, she and her husband were able to rent a larger and more comfortable house to better accommodate their family.

And every morning, you can find her preparing wonderful concoctions like the delicious recipe below. I hope you’ll give it a try—and I hope you’ll feel good about your part in helping women like Vilma build better lives for their families!

Papaya Smoothie

  • 1/2 ripe papaya 
  • 1/2 cup milk 
  • 10 ice cubes 
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla 
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt 
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice 
  • Add honey to taste

Combine all ingredients in blender and blend on medium until smooth. Enjoy as is, or try topping with whipped cream and crushed Corn Flakes!

It’s a recipe you can make anytime. Just like the recipe to give more hardworking entrepreneurs like Vilma the opportunity they need to build a better life for their families: support FINCA with your tax-deductible gift this holiday season.

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