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Feeding Guatemala's Body, Mind & Spirit
Needs poured in from the north, south, east, and west. Parents and their children where physically hungry, emotionally drained, economically lost, and spiritually dead. Julio Cesar de Leon of OBI's Guatemala center in Guatemala City was working in the middle of it all.
Beginning last year, Julio and his volunteer team took on an ambitious year-long Bless-A-Child plan, which focused on meeting the needs of 1,050 poverty stricken families living in seven areas. An average of three children were a part of each unit, equaling more than 3,000 total! "Our goal was to help these families by giving them the chance to improve their health, educational, and economical situation," said Julio. "All this was complemented with spiritual support from local Christian churches."
Health projects included administering anti-parasite medicine, vaccinations, and vitamins to the children, providing monthly medical check-ups to entire families through existing OBI clinics, giving clothing and personal hygiene items to the young, as well as establishing the Family Garden Program. Wood boxes were soon transformed into small nutritious gardens which helped to encourage healthy eating.
Playing in areas without proper sewer systems, and clean water cause rampant parasite and respiratory problems especially among children in developing countries. Seven-year-old Nelson came in to a clinic with a severe cough. He was checked by a qualified doctor and given helpful medicine for free. His parents wouldn't have been able to afford it otherwise. Selvin, 3-years-old, had to have a check-up, lab tests, and medicine to become healthy.
Because at least 50% of adults and teens cannot read or write, the National Literacy Committee provided teachers to instruct approximately 2,000 people! Notebooks, pens, pencils, and other basic items were also given to the students. In addition to all of the support and training, families also received staple food items including powdered milk, noodles, and beans.
Thousands of Guatemalan parents and children have benefited from this Bless-A-Child program. Their stomachs are full, self-confidence is high, economic opportunities are on the horizon, and they have tasted the love of Christ.
Please don't let your opportunity to give to Bless-A-Child's international program pass by. Give generously now...
Make your donation here...
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