Bolivia's Hidden Hunger: The Faces of Poverty and Resilience

Bolivia's Hidden Hunger: A Day in the Life of Those Who Struggle to Survive La Paz, Bolivia – May 29, 2025 – In the bustling streets of La Paz, amidst the vibrant culture and daily life, a harsh reality exists for many Bolivians: the struggle against hunger. This is the story of Petronila and Francisca, two elderly women whose lives are a testament to the challenges of extreme poverty. Petronila, interviewed by Unitel Bolivia, shares her heartbreaking account: "Sometimes, I only eat bread. I have diabetes, and the doctor told me not to eat bread, but hunger is stronger." Her words paint a vivid picture of her daily struggle to survive on meager portions of food. Francisca's story echoes Petronila's. She explains that she lost all her money paying for utilities, leaving her with nothing for lunch, resorting to a small portion of rice. "I calm my hunger with coca leaves," she says, highlighting the desperate measures some take to cope. These women's stories are not unique. Many Bolivian families face similar challenges, lacking pensions, health insurance, and access to adequate nutrition. Their resilience in the face of adversity, however, is inspiring. Their stories serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for social support and programs to alleviate poverty and hunger in the region.