In Mexico, social programs such as Sembrando Vida seek to massively expand agroforestry systems to address the problem of rural poverty and the loss of natural resources. However, little is known regarding program implementation and the response by the beneficiaries within their local context. We explored the local perceptions about the Sembrando Vida program implemented in the X-Hazil Sur Maya community in the state of Quintana Roo in southern Mexico through interviews with beneficiaries and operational personnel of the program and visited production units. Our results show that the program faces practical problems of establishing agroforestry systems and in their long-term maintenance by the local beneficiaries. If public policies are to effectively address poverty and environmental degradation local stakeholders must be involved in the design and planning of long-term strategies.