Casa Monte Plata (CMP) is a refuge during this difficult time of COVID-19. Though the children and youth here are quarantined, they are secure with a supply of food and loving house parents. Teenagers and young adults from our independence project, Casa Ester, are also quarantined on campus and taking on roles as house moms, assistants, or educational tutors for younger children.
Most of the children express gratitude for the care they are receiving. Being quarantined in a home in a barrio without food and running water would have been far more challenging. Church, art activities, unstructured playtime, making new foods, and schoolwork fill the days of these children and youth.
Rosa* turned fifteen, the big coming of age birthday here, and even though the usual quincañera fiesta was not possible during quarantine, it was special. At the end of the day, Rosa contentedly recounted all the blessings she received, starting with breakfast, a surprise cake, a visit from her biological family, and blessings from her CMP siblings. And this month all CMP women dressed up for a special tea on the directors’ porch, complete with photos, worship, and a devotion.
The men successfully took on fixing the septic system under the guidance of former CMP resident Pablito, now a plumber.
While the country remains under curfew, mandatory mask, and travel restrictions, our children were enjoying the space and surroundings of CMP, and Juana, our site director, is using her spare time to take better selfies, too!
(*name changed)
Gathering on the directors’ porch, all the women, young and old, dressed up and celebrated a special tea. Director Juana shared an inspiring message from God’s Word as they enjoyed tea.
In spite of being locked in and working around the clock, the staff is energetic and playful! They gather for regular meetings on the directors’ porch to pray, discuss schedules, and work together through challenges that come up.
As if the pandemic and lockdown weren't enough, the septic tank developed issues! one of our graduates, who is now a plumber, guided the older youth and house dad Mario to fix the problem! Blessed to be a blessing.
Younger ones hang out in their favorite spots.
With schools closed, Casa Monte Plata has adapted to a daily routine of schoolwork, which often includes the older kids helping the younger ones. This has been a great opportunity for service and for building kids' self-esteem.
Donuts are not common here, but somehow everyone knows about them. Excited to learn a new skill, the kids are thrilled to enjoy the donuts they've made!
While the pandemic lockdown has posed some challenges, the gains have outweighed the hardships experienced by our kids. Joyful laughter abounds.
These moms work hard day in and day out with a supernatural joy nourishing to the souls of all! We celebrate Mother’s Day with these moms.
House mom Minerva surrounded by her apprentices, young women who grew up in Kids Alive residential programs who are supporting us as assistant house moms.
Choosing to love and enjoy each other is just that, a choice. Many lessons have been learned in these months, including how to love others well.
After decades of loving and serving children at risk, Directora Juana still laughs and cries with each child. She is a trusted and beloved mother to many. She is also getting better at taking selfies!
Turning 15 in the DR is like America’s “Sweet 16” – a time of transition into womanhood celebrated with a special party. The Casa Monte Plata family and friends planned surprise celebrations throughout the day.
The older girls proudly display their artistic creations. The directors and house parents have used the quarantine time to strengthen connections with the children.
When asked what they would like to do during this quarantine, many of the girls expressed the desire to bake. They have enjoyed trying new recipes.
Art projects give the girls an opportunity to express themselves while hearing encouraging and edifying words that raise their self-esteem.
It was all hands on deck under the guidance of CMP graduate and now plumber Pablito when the septic system went out. Together, they were able to solve their septic problem, building self-esteem and teaching the value of teamwork.
Even though church services are held on the campus, everyone gets dressed up and eagerly gathers for worship. Young Mateo* is excited to spend time with the directors, where many gather often on their porch. (*Name changed)
Art projects give the girls an opportunity to express themselves while hearing encouraging and edifying words that raise their self-esteem.
Schoolwork at CMP often takes place around the kitchen table elbow to elbow. Quarantine time has allowed relationships to deepen.