Andrew's Journal...

In my four trips to the Children’s Home I’ve seen many changes, some obvious, some not. With each successive trip, I gain a greater appreciation for the work being done there and the level of need for such a project in Honduras. I am also constantly amazed by the dedication of the staff who dedicate their lives to this wonderful cause.

My first trip saw the grand opening celebration for the Children’s Home and the Azacualpa community. The following year, the majority of the children who currently reside there had arrived. Many had emotional issues that stemmed from lives either spent on the street or in a home environment that was lacking in love and/or ability to provide for their needs. Some were angry, some were quiet, and some were amazingly well-adjusted considering their history. Over the past few years, they have all grown physically, but their mental and emotional growth has been much greater. I’ve gained much pleasure from seeing how the children have matured each year. No longer do they have to wonder about having food to eat or a safe place to sleep. Most importantly, they know they are loved and are God’s children.

The care provided by Brenda, Alex, and Mariana is tremendous, and they care for the children as if they all were their own. Not only do they provide food and shelter for the children, but they provide emotional support, assistance with school work, Christian teaching, and discipline when necessary.

Structurally, I’ve been fortunate to see the appearance of a building for the water pressure equipment and a room for the night watchman as well as an equipment shed. The two biggest additions, however, have been the construction of a playground made possible by the very generous donations of mission trip regulars, and the completion of a house for the five oldest boys to live in under the live-in supervision of Alex and Mariana. Such improvements have had an immeasurable benefit to the development of the children.

I can’t wait to return in the coming years and see the development of the children and the land. It’s so rewarding to go help in a way that is needed in a place that needs all the help it can get.

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