Hermano Pedro Social Works Foundation USA

Obras Sociales History

obras exterior

Obras Sociales was founded in 1979 by Fray Guillermo Bonilla, a Franciscan priest who followed the footsteps and the mission of Holy Brother Peter Bethancourt (Santo Hermano Pedro), caring for the poor, disabled and abandoned in small private homes in Antigua. In early 1983, the Antigua municipality allowed him to take possession of the crumbling and uninhabitable facilities of the colonial-era Antiguo Hospital de Clérigos del Apostól San Pedro. Working around the clock with other volunteers, it was officially inaugurated on March 16, 1983 with twelve beds for the sick. Since that time the facility has been continually remodeled and built by the strong faith of the Franciscans who continue to manage it.

Now, Obras Sociales is one of the largest health care providers of surgery in the country. In addition, thousands of Guatemalans who lack access to any medical care receive high quality primary and preventive care, education and treatment at Obras’ clinics, residential care homes and external facilities.

In order to meet an increased demand for services, Obras Sociales recently build a second center outside Antigua, Virgen de Socorro. This dream project is now the home to 250 residents needing specialized, round-the-clock care. Space that was vacated in the main facility in Antigua will be used to expand surgical and medical care and three new operating rooms are planned for construction and opening in 2022. (See New Projects)

Obras Sociales remains an apolitical, registered non-governmental institution, with operating licenses in health and education. It is recognized for the quality of its services and reputation as a transparent and reliable charity faith-based organization. The economic stability and sustainability of Obras Sociales derives from a variety of sources: donations from former volunteers and international medical teams, the Guatemalan government and private sector, the Catholic Church, and Asociación Amigos Pro Obras Sociales, a system of Guatemalan volunteers who assist with special projects, consulting and financial support.

For more information about Obras Sociales, please visit their website:  hermanopedrogt.org