( CNN ) -- The Peace Corps is slashing operations in Honduras and scaling back in El Salvador and Guatemala , citing security concerns in a region beset by violence linked to the lucrative drug trade . The U.S. program currently has 158 volunteers serving in Honduras . They are all scheduled to come home early next year on administrative leave , and the Peace Corps `` will review the safety and security climate in Honduras before continuing with volunteer operations , '' the agency said in a statement issued this week . In a similar but less severe move , the Peace Corps canceled its January training classes for new volunteers in El Salvador and Guatemala . It said it will enhance support to the 113 volunteers in El Salvador and the 222 volunteers currently serving in Guatemala . `` The safety and security of all Peace Corps volunteers is the agency 's highest priority , '' said Peace Corps Director Aaron S. Williams . He added that the program will conduct a `` full review '' of its operations in Honduras , where homicide rates more than doubled between 2005 and 2010 , according to a recent U.N. report . Much like its neighbor to the north , Mexico , Central America is struggling to get a grip on violent crime . Drug cartels use the region as a strategic way station between South America , where most of the world 's coca is grown , and North America , a major cocaine market . Coca is the raw ingredient for cocaine . The Peace Corps has operated since 1963 in Honduras and Guatemala , sending more than 5,500 and 4,800 Americans to serve in each country , respectively . It operated in El Salvador between 1962 and 1979 , and returned in 1993 .
All 158 volunteers currently serving in Honduras will be placed on administrative leave . Summer classes for new volunteers are canceled for El Salvador and Guatemala . Peace Corps has operated in Honduras since 1978 . Homicide rates there more than doubled between 2007 and 2009 .