At The Hope Effect, we want to change the way the world cares for orphans. That won’t happen overnight, so we are also committed to caring for orphans right now – wherever they are, in any way we can. And sometimes, we like to party!
Earlier this week, The Hope Effect had the incredible opportunity to host a Christmas party in San Luis, Mexico for children under the care of DIF (Mexico’s version of CPS). Thanks to your generosity and support, we were able to purchase presents for every child in DIF custody – more than 89 kids! Each present contained a pair of shoes and several pairs of socks and underwear. And we didn’t forget the other essentials…cupcakes, juice, and candy!
It was amazing to see the kids’ excitement as they ran up to receive their gifts when their names were called. A great partnership with DIF employees allowed us all to provide a wonderful experience for the children.
That’s a key element of what The Hope Effect does – partnership. If we want to change the way the world cares for orphans, we need to work together. The employees of DIF are doing the best job they can with what they have, but we know there is a better way, and we want to help.
Currently, the DIF facility we visited is home to more than 50 children, all age 12 and under. (Once the children reach age 13, they are moved into other gender-specific buildings.) Multiple children share a bedroom, so there are about 8-11 kids per room. Some of the rooms have beds, others just have mattresses on the floor, but regardless, there are not enough beds for all the children. In one of the bedrooms, there are seven beds for 11 girls. A staff of more than 40 people is required to care for the children, and staff members rotate in and out based on their schedules.
The staff is doing important work, and we are so thankful for the care they are providing. The facility is clean, and it’s clear the workers truly care for the children. But these kids are longing to be part of a family, and that’s why The Hope Effect is trying to change the way the world cares for orphans. We are working to provide solutions that mimic the family, with two-parent, family-style homes. These homes will create loving environments that promote stability and offer opportunities for children to thrive.
But in the meantime, we are going to care for kids who are in need – however we can. In early 2018, we’ll continue our partnership with the San Luis DIF by building beds for all of the children in the facility. We are excited to continue supporting these children, and we look forward to working together to find better solutions.
We’d love for you to partner with us as well. If this cause touches your heart, we would greatly appreciate your support.
Help us finish the year strong, and join us for an exciting 2018!