Casa Monte Plata youth at Eva M. Russell School enjoy their friends from the community. This is a safe place for them to engage in friendships with their peers as well as adult staff.
Late afternoons at Casa Monte Plata are full of play – riding skateboards, playing basketball, kicking soccer balls, shooting marbles, tossing baseballs. Houseparents enjoy simple and encouraging conversations prior to dinner.
Loved by all because he loves all, CMP Director Ramón enjoys visiting with all the children at Eva M. Russell School, which he and his wife Juana founded over three decades ago. The Casa Monte Plata children light up when they see their “tio” (uncle) at school!
Children at Casa Monte Plata attend the Kids Alive Eva Russell School in Monte Plata. Here David* lines up with his class for the morning flag ceremony before heading to class. *Name changed
Marble games are popular in Dominican Republic, and Casa Monte Plata children love playing marbles. Here, Fran* and Juan* strategize and plan to win the game.
The children are taught to value their belongings. so they change into play clothes when they get home. Julia*, Ana*, Ema*, and Brenda* enjoy a relaxing game of homemade jacks. Sports and games bond and build deep friendships which is part of their restoration process.
House mom Jani and her husband Mario live in Casa de Bendición with their biological and foster children. They love them all!
“Recreo” is open playtime at Casa Monte Plata when house parents and staff interact with the kids during their free time. For children with a history of trauma, this time provides healing and restoration.
House mom Minerva sports the flower that Daniel* just gave her, valuing his gift and receiving his love. At Casa Monte Plata, these little ones learn that God loves them and they are valued. *Name changed
Always on the move, young Daniel* is free to play and explore safe surroundings and build secure friendships at Casa Monte Plata.
*Name changed
Casa Monte Plata Director Ramón Prenza joyfully takes a spin with energetic Amanda*, He and his wife Juana have poured into the lives of hundreds of children at risk since they were a young couple, glorifying God and living out His command to love one another.
The basketball court at Casa Monte Plata provides a healthy and safe place to play and hang out. An intact basketball backboard and hoop are scarce in the barrios.