In this season of gratitude we are counting our blessings at Proyecto Santo Nino:
1. Cristina was able to register most of our special children (and their families) for “seguro popular”, a type of government health insurance that will cover hospitalizations, emergency visits, and some medications and supplies. The registration is effective from Dec.1, 2008 to 2011.
2. Gloria, Sofia, Lucy, Rosa, Teo and Isidra, all mothers in our “grupo de apoyo” attended the first session of training in Capacitar last weekend in El Paso. They will have several more weekend trainings and eventually become instructors in this program that seeks to “teach simple wellness practices, team building and self development to awaken people to their own wisdom, strength and resources [so that they] can reach out to their families and communities to heal injustice and create a more peaceful world”.
3. A group of seven volunteers with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth came Nov. 19-23 to help at the clinic. The men assisted Boris in installing shelving in one storage closet and building another closet for cleaning supplies. The women helped with the children and offered special “Christmas Crafts” projects for the kids and their moms.
4. A special donation will provide grocery gift coupons for our families to have a Christmas meal.
5. A beautiful donated high-tech child’s wheelchair was a perfect “fit” for Martin who suffers from severe spasticity with cerebral palsy.
6. The mothers and other caregivers are continuing to develop a sense of community and nurturing love with one another. It is moving to see the care they extend to each other and to the children.
7. Rosario and Barbara, both teenage siblings of special needs children, are enrolled in a school for non-traditional students to complete their education.
8. Boris, Yessenia’s fiancé, is a tremendous help to us as the clinic handyman, substitute chauffer, gardener, and supply manager. He is also “Tio Boris” (Uncle) to all the children!
9. None of us have been affected by the terrible violence that has wracked Juarez in the past year because of rival drug cartels.
10. Anne Garrett has been with us to volunteer since mid-October. She is especially thankful to the Mendez family in Anapra who have offered hospitality and an authentic experience of Mexican tradition and culture.