Blog

Santo Domingo North School has been ministering to at-risk children from poor areas with food and health protection in Dominican Republic's capital, and this feature of the ministry has become even more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our staff is working hard to distribute food to hungry children and their families as well as support them with information to help cope with emotional, physical, and spiritual challenges.

School Directors Margaret and Juan and their team of teachers and workers continue to find creative ways to serve and glorify God despite the obstacles and challenges posed by the pandemic.

The children completed their academic year on June 19th and are now on summer vacation. The vacation is restful for the children, but the school now moves into high gear to complete maintenance projects and minor construction work before school reopens in August.

For over 30 years, Eva Russell School has been a sanctuary for at-risk youth, ministering to their physical, mental, and spiritual needs. This has been especially true during the pandemic.While COVID-19 threatens to rob people of their health and life, it has already robbed many of their daily wage jobs. Due to massive unemployment, the school has been disbursing food rations since April to all of our school children's families.

Additionally, school staff distributed materials to help children and families stay physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy while sheltering at home. Kids Alive partners have also contributed extra funds as well as essential items like masks to help the school provide for and protect some of the neediest children and families.

Park School and Care Center in Caraballo continues to be an oasis for impoverished children and youth in the community around us. Through this center, children and families are learning of God’s provision and abundant love even during this time when COVID-19 has imposed severe restrictions on our ministry.Since the government imposed quarantine restrictions, Kids Alive has helped with six major food distributions and reached out to our children's homes with practical instructions for emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.

Through the past school year, we have made major advances by opening a new dental clinic on our campus and by imparting life skills and job training for the older youth and young adults. God has not only protected but has provided for our children and their families, changing lives for His glory!

Since its beginning nearly ten years ago in the carport of Directors Kami and Romulo’s rented house, the Santo Domingo East School program has protected and provided for children and youth in the surrounding poor community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the mission has further risen to the occasion – our dedicated school staff have embraced change to reach out to our students and their families with regular food provisions and other resources.

The school year ended mid-June, and children and their parents visited the school to receive children's end of the year packages and complete special projects for their sponsors. It was the first time the children had returned to school since it was ordered shut by government authorities in mid-March to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Directors Jan Burkey and Miriam Hernandez are approaching their 20th year of ministry serving in the impoverished and sometimes violent Palo Blanco barrio, on the outskirts of Jarabacoa city.

Protection and provision have been constant themes in this program since its inception. This is even more defined during the pandemic as the school became a "relief organization" which provided food for hungry families and educational material for kids during school closures.

We are grateful to all those who've partnered with us in prayer and financial support for many years but especially during this crisis. God’s love continues to be on display in this community and many lives are being positively impacted.

Four years ago, several girls arrived at the Oasis. Each carried their own pain, but Natalia* was particularly hardened. She best related to things associated with gangs, including painting graffiti. Over the last few years, her heart softened and there was a change. It could be seen in her shifting interest toward academics, joining the worship team, and learning to play instruments and sing.

However, the most significant change came when she went back to her artistic roots and began painting. When an opportunity opened up for Natalia* to join a Lettering Workshop offered in June, she jumped at the opportunity. Now she is using her gift to build friendships, and the community around her can see the change in her. We are grateful that the Lord gave her gifts which she is now able to use to honor Him.

(*Name changed)

Protection and provision have been a part of the ongoing mission of Constanza School since its inception as a care center almost fifteen years ago. During the pandemic, these themes are even more clear – the school staff has modified the operation to include a relief food operation. The school has been buying food wholesale and repacking it to distribute to needy families in our community.

Along with the food items, staff share materials to help with families' spiritual and emotional well-being. Teachers and counselors have maintained connections with their students via cell phones and social media. The school staff has even figured out ways to loan library books and celebrate birthdays and grade-level promotions.

Summer work has begun to prepare for having kids and staff back on campus in the fall. Stay tuned!

After school ended in early June, our children, youth, and house parents spent two weeks in a rural camp outside of Monte Plata. Because we had the camp to ourselves, we were well protected, and also could enjoy the open spaces and recreational activities. This was a welcome break after being quarantined for twelve weeks on the relatively small campus of Casa Monte Plata. Our youth and workers remain grateful for both God’s protection and provision during this unique time.

At the end of June, the group returned to Casa Monte Plata and began a six-week summer program along with work projects and summer jobs. Several of the older youth have reached maturity and education levels that they can now help run the summer programs.

The Dominican Republic economy began reopening in phases starting in June. But since many families remain unemployed and hence have no income or savings, Kids Alive continues to distribute food packets to needy families of our children.

Though we miss our kids, their absence from the school campus has allowed us to restart and finish construction work on the new cafeteria and sports court. We are expecting the project to be finished by early August, just in time for the children's return if the government decides if it is safe to reopen schools.

Other ANIJA School campus modifications include the reopening of the library and the addition of hand-washing stations.As the school is closed for the summer, our teaching staff is getting a well-deserved break in July!

While we've struggled through the day-to-day challenges that this pandemic has brought, we have clearly seen God’s provision and protection for our children and house parents at Ark Constanza. Along with that, we've also witnessed the strength of our national colleagues and missionaries.

Working collaboratively, we've stayed safe from illness by enforcing strict quarantining of children and house parents within the campus walls and ensuring those delivering food and other essentials also follow strict protocols.

In this time together, children and workers have grown spiritually and in their love for each other while enjoying special group activities and strengthening bonds with their extended campus families.

Many of our missionaries and national staff have contributed sacrificially during the pandemic by taking on additional responsibilities including organizing special activities, teaching health and safety precautions, and volunteering to live several weeks inside the residential program as substitute parents.

This recent “sacrifice” allowed our house parents to take a much needed two-week vacation in a secluded mountain home after 12-consecutive weeks on site.

Sometimes we think of Ark Jarabacoa's beautiful campus as holy ground, with structures built by God’s people to transform lives for His glory. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it certainly has served as a place to experience God’s protection and provision, while seeing His love in action.Our kids have grown closer to each other and to God.

Many of our older youth have been stretched to use their talents during these months – developing new skills and taking on additional responsibilities to help meet needs on the quarantined campus. Support teams outside the campus work together to plan activities for kids and staff so all remain busy, healthy, and thriving.

Toward the end of June, a "relief" staff team entered the campus for six weeks to support a special summer program. They were also able to relieve house parents who had been in lockdown on the campus since March, allowing them to go on a much needed two-week vacation.

Carmen* came to Kids Alive following years of pain and sadness. After she suffered abuse in many forms, her parents were deemed unfit and she went to live with her grandmother. But eventually her grandmother became too sick to take care of a child who had been so mistreated and neglected, and Carmen came to live at the Ark.

When she first arrived, she acted aggressively and disrespectfully to the adults she encountered, since that was all she had ever known. She would fight physically with the boys at the home, and lacked appropriate social skills. Adapting to life at the Ark has been difficult, but Carmen is making progress every day, improving emotionally, socially, and educationally.

She is an intelligent girl who is learning acceptable behavior from watching the other children around her. Despite the lack of academic help she had for many years, she has caught up in her studies and we expect she will continue to improve. Quiet, reserved, but strong-willed, she is beginning to express herself well, and our prayer is that she will soon understand that she is valuable and loved. It is our privilege to share the love of Jesus with Carmen, knowing that true healing and joy can only come from knowing Him.

*name changed to protect privacy

Graduating from the 9th grade at the top of her class last year put Marcela* closer to realizing her dream of becoming a nurse. In Guatemala, students graduate from high school in 9th grade and then enroll in specific two-year trade school programs before graduating and entering university. But her dreams ran into a slush. The university ruled that the 17-year-old Marcela was “too young” to enroll in a nursing program and that she would have to wait till she turned 18. She was discouraged.

Seeing her discouragement put our Kids Alive Guatemala team in overdrive as they scrambled to find an alternate program so Marcela wouldn’t lose an academic year. They came up with a solution. They developed an on-site nursing internship for Marcela with Kids Alive Guatemala staff nurse, Catie.

“We felt that giving her some hands-on experience prior to nursing school would better prepare her,” said Catie. “It has been a God-send for me to have an extra set of hands to help with weighing babies, filing medical records, and doing vision and hearing screens on all of the girls. I’ve had so much fun seeing her excitement about learning new things.”

The current pandemic’s increased demand in all areas of preventive health care has made Marcela‘s assistance to Catie even more significant. She has assumed the responsibility for delivering vitamins to house moms, sanitizing the healthcare facility, and running health-related errands for Catie, freeing up her time to handle the larger health issues. Because Marcela is still a minor and a resident of Oasis, she’s restricted from doing many of the basic nursing assignments independently; however, under Catie’s watchful eye, she is enjoying her work nursing internship.

Recently, Catie successfully secured all the supplies needed to draw blood samples from a local lab in town that Kids Alive uses regularly. Catie not only taught Marcela how to draw blood but also volunteered to be her first “patient” to get her blood drawn.

“I’m so grateful for this opportunity to be part of this journey for Marcela. I can’t wait to see how God uses her nursing career to positively impact lives,” said Catie.*Name changed to protect identity.

*name changed.

A note from the Kids Alive Guatemala Director of Residential Programs‍

Today my heart is so grateful to God for His mercy and faithfulness for the Oasis and my Kids Alive Guatemala team. We are celebrating 70 days of prayer and we have seen how the hand of the Lord has sustained us. Every morning at 9:00 we meet together to pray for Guatemala, our government, the girls’ families, our leadership team, and every team member of Kids Alive Guatemala. We have had some really sweet moments with the Lord.

I thank the Lord for my team! Before the pandemic, I felt like I knew each one of our house moms well. I knew each of them was responding to the call of God to work here. However, during this Covid-19 crisis, I have had the opportunity to get to know each of their hearts at a deeper level. Each member of our team has been so determined and willing to serve!

Our house moms have been faithful and persistent – doing a difficult job at a difficult time. Even though I can see that they are tired, I also see how their strength has been renewed each day. They continue to stand as firm soldiers in the midst of a battle. I have witnessed how well they treat the girls despite their exhaustion and stress. This resilience has shown me that our house moms have dedicated hearts full of God’s love.

They are willing to change plans and adapt to irregular schedules and longer than normal work rotations. On top of all of this, many of them have sacrificed time at home with their families during this crisis to assure our children are well cared for.Until quite recently, some house moms couldn’t even return home to their family during their days off, because of the strict travel restrictions imposed by the mayors of their hometowns. These house moms remained at Oasis for multiple weeks.

During their time off, they had alternative housing so they could rest, sleep, relax, and have the freedom to do whatever they wanted. However, they often chose to work and help and the other house moms, “We can’t stay here and do nothing. We prefer to help in our houses.”

Seeing the house moms play, laugh, and simply being mothers during this crisis means watching them be full-time: teachers, since the girls are being sent homework weekly (Guatemala schools run from January through October), cooks, Zumba instructors, artists, and pastors. To see their joy in everything they do reveals the work of God and His love manifested throughout this whole team.

This crisis has proven to be a great opportunity…

Opportunity for picnics together.

Opportunity for changing stagnant routines.

Opportunity to work overtime if desired.

Opportunity to be more active and work out.

Opportunity to spend more focused time on school work.

Opportunity to pray more.

And an opportunity to work together as a more united team than we have ever been before.

I only have one thing to say: “Thank you, Lord! Your love is infinite!”~ Karla Galván, Kids Alive Guatemala Director of Residential Programs

Over 90% of the families in this remote, impoverished, racially charged area are unemployed and without an income. One of our teachers is feeding twelve people in her small home and is thankful that Kids Alive has continued to pay staff their salaries at this time. Park School has partnered with two other nonprofits to provide weekly food rations for all households in the community, which include the 120 Kids Alive families.

School director Alberto meets weekly with the six other Kids Alive school directors to plan, share successes and ideas, discuss spiritual and emotional care, and look forward to next fall.

Santo Domingo East School continues to subsidize children’s nutrition through relief food to 87 families who are part of our school community. The families come to collect food at the site, and those without transportation receive deliveries at home.

Our teachers have adapted to the COVID-19 world. They now connect with their students via WhatsApp to send study materials, homework, weekly devotions, and words of support and encouragement. School directors Kami and Romulo meet weekly with the six other Kids Alive school directors to plan, share successes and best practices, and discuss topics such as sustaining spiritual and emotional care of children and staff.

The Kids Alive DR counseling staff have produced videos to guide parents in engaging with their children, keeping daily routines, and addressing issues such as stress and anxiety. The medical staff has also produced videos and flyers on COVID-19 prevention, use of personal protective equipment, and how to care for a sick person. The country remains under curfew, with mandatory mask-use and restricted travel.

Around 80% of families of students at Eva Russell School have been left without an income as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to your generous support, we’ve provided weekly food rations for these 130 families, along with educational material and family devotions.

School director Debora Prenza leads daily devotions with her staff via WhatsApp, and then reaches out to recent graduates of Eva Russell to help meet some of their needs. She also confers weekly with the six other Kids Alive school directors to plan and share ideas for spiritual and emotional care of the children.

The Kids Alive Dominican Republic staff have produced video clips to guide parents in engaging their children, keeping a daily routine, and addressing other issues such as stress and anxiety. The medical staff have also produced videos and flyers on COVID-19 prevention, use of personal protective equipment, and how to care for a sick person.

The country remains under curfew, with mandatory mask use and travel restrictions. Thank you to Tower Hill Church, Red Bank, NJ, for the masks you made and sent for all the children at Eva Russell!

Constanza School is one of our most innovative, and is finding ways to help during COVID-19 – with great thanks to generous donors. Kids Alive provides food, homework, and spiritual support packages each week to all 130 families attached to the school. Teachers meticulously prepare notebooks for each of their students, and the school provides all supplies for schoolwork, since even paper and pencils are scarce in our students’ homes.

In a recent survey of our families, 94% reported they were unemployed with no source of regular income during the quarantine, making our support essential.

Our staff are supervising a reading club for 3rd to 6th graders by sending books from the school library to be exchanged for others every two weeks. This month, the older youth were given Bibles, and children with birthdays this month were sent a gift as well.

School director Luz Angela meets weekly with the six other Kids Alive school directors to plan, share successes and ideas, discuss spiritual and emotional care, and look forward to next fall. The Kids Alive DR counseling staff around the island have produced and distributed videos to guide parents in connecting with their children, keeping daily routines, and addressing other issues such as stress and anxiety.

The medical staff has also produced videos and flyers on COVID-19 prevention, use of personal protective equipment, and how to care for a sick person.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Palo Blanco School’s light is shining ever more brightly! The school is providing relief packages of food, tracts, and educational materials to the 170 families of students who attend Palo Blanco. The school is also providing emotional support as teachers make regular contact with their families and students via WhatsApp.

School director Jan and academic director Miriam meet weekly with the six other Kids Alive school directors to plan, share best practices, and discuss spiritual and emotional care. The Kids Alive DR counseling staff have produced videos to guide parents in engaging with their children, keeping daily routines, and addressing issues such as stress and anxiety. The medical staff have also produced videos and flyers on COVID-19 prevention, use of personal protective equipment, and how to care for sick family members.

We are grateful to visitor Kathleen, who is sewing masks for the staff and children. The country remains under curfew, with mandatory use of masks and with restrictions on movement.

The Ark is a refuge for at-risk children and youth, and even more so during this pandemic. Our kids have been quarantined with their house parents on the campus since March 19. Despite this, when surveyed, the vast majority express gratitude for their time together!

The lockdown has brought many challenges, and staff have had to be very creative to make sure everything gets done. Our older youth have stepped up to fill the service roles usually carried out by the support staff, including cooking, cleaning, and yard work. Many have spiritually matured during this time, and one was also baptized.Directors Fred and Kasandra O’Brien keep a healthy and active weekly schedule, including classes taught by house parents on the school campus, complete with PE and devotions.

Other activities include making new foods such as pizza, playing board games, and growing vegetables.Celebrated on the last Sunday of May, Mother’s Day was a hit with the moms who enjoyed gifts and special pizza. And one afternoon, God provided the entertainment in a powerful downpour complete with large hailstones!The country remains under curfew, mandatory mask use, and enforced travel restrictions.

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)

The Ark is an oasis for at-risk children and youth, and even more so during this pandemic. The children have been quarantined with their house parents since March 19th. Amazingly, the vast majority of children are grateful, with older youth stepping into doing chores at home as well as serving as house assistants and groundskeepers. Many are also growing spiritually and relationally with their peers.

The ministry has invested in making the children’s life a little more fun during their quarantine by providing supplies for making special foods like pizza and donuts, and using a blow-up pool and board games to facilitate family bonding time and on-campus picnics. The house moms have enjoyed cooking out together, and house dads stay on top of the grounds team, along with lots of playtimes. House dad Albert is a tailor, and with two borrowed sewing machines and some of the older boys as apprentices, he is sewing high-quality masks for the entire Ark family.

Birthdays are celebrated in creative ways, valuing each child as a unique gift from God. A week early, the older youth planned a surprise Mother’s Day afternoon which the house moms enjoyed, complete with pool time and special foods. On the last Sunday of May, the moms enjoyed breakfast in bed courtesy of the kids!

Around 80% of the ANIJA families are unemployed and without income, as most lost jobs with the pandemic and the government enforced quarantine. The staff at ANIJA School has been very active in providing food for its most needy families, around 85, and continuing with educational and emotional support for the children. Working with the local colmado (corner store), Nany, our staff social worker, determines food (and other essential) rations for an estimated two-week supply. A family member, or sometimes the students themselves, are given a time to pick up their bags in order to keep people appropriately distanced.School director Ann Van Der Molen meets weekly with the six other Kids Alive school directors to plan, share successes and ideas, and discuss spiritual and emotional care. Along with homework packet distributions, the teachers have worked diligently to instruct and encourage their students via WhatsApp on their parents’ cell phones. Devotions and conversations about God are also taking place.The Kids Alive DR counseling staff around the island have produced videos to guide parents in connecting with their children, keeping daily routines, and addressing other issues such as stress and anxiety. The medical staff has also produced videos and flyers on COVID-19 prevention, use of personal protective equipment, and how to care for a sick person. The country remains under curfew, mandatory mask use, and restricted travel.

Santo Domingo North School continues its food relief program to 77 families with the help of a local church. Job losses have left many families with no income during the COVID-19 pandemic.Our teachers are working hard to stay spiritually, emotionally, and academically engaged with our students. Despite the challenges imposed by the pandemic, students are working hard, and families enjoy sharing photos with their teachers via WhatsApp – the main way of communicating during this pandemic.

School directors Margaret and Juan meet weekly with the six other Kids Alive school directors to plan, share successes and ideas, and discuss spiritual and emotional care. The Kids Alive DR counseling staff have produced videos to guide parents in engaging with their children, keeping daily routines, and addressing other issues such as stress and anxiety.

The Kids Alive medical staff has also produced videos and flyers on COVID-19 prevention, use of personal protective equipment, and how to care for a sick family member. The country remains under government-enforced curfew, mandatory mask use, and restrictions on movement.

SCHOOLS

COVID-19 presented many challenges for the seven Kids Alive schools in the Dominican Republic. Our first priority became keeping the children, their families, and our employees safe from a new and deadly disease about which little was known.

Secondly, when schools were closed and the country locked down in mid-March, we had the challenge of continuing the education and emotional care for 2,000 impoverished children with difficult family situations. Finally, with massive unemployment (we estimate 80-90% of our school families are currently unemployed with no savings or credit), and no school breakfasts and lunches, many of our children and their families quickly began to suffer from lack of food.

Our staff responded quickly and creatively. We created protocols for handwashing, social distancing, wearing masks, and sanitizing groceries, and began distributing information to families in various ways, including video clips they could watch on cell phones. Additionally, our teachers and counselors worked with parents to get classroom study material, family devotionals, and other activities into the home as well as help create healthy routines for the children with so much time in their little homes.

Furthermore, for a limited time, we transitioned in one aspect to a relief organization, and with the help of generous donors grew our food distribution to feed over 1,200 families regularly during the quarantine period which recently ended. Our relief work is likely to continue for the next several months on a lesser level as parts of the economy remain shut and many children and their families lack adequate food.

Guatemala Update with Corbey Dukes

We hosted a virtual “family meeting” on June 10 with Country Director Corbey Dukes and with Joann Lara (Oasis Residential Program Coordinator), Fatima Milian (a Casa Ester resident), and Susana Escobedo (Coordinator of Escuintla Care Center and lawyer), where they shared with generous supporters how the ministry is responding to the COVID-19 crisis in the midst of urgent needs, and shared ongoing needs for prayer. 

If you were not able to be with us, would like to listen again, or would like to share the call with other interested friends, the video of the call is here:

https://player.vimeo.com/video/427820954

And if you’d like to give a special gift to help our Guatemala ministries during the current crisis, you can do that here. 

With government-enforced lockdowns and curfews in place, our staff takes the opportunity to clean, sanitize, and maintain the Santo Domingo North School facility so it is ready to receive our children back to class.

Despite government-imposed curfews, lockdowns, and stringent visitor protocols at Casa Monte Plata, our children have adapted to the new “confined life,” and have learned to keep themselves happy! Here are some of our kids enjoying studies, birthday celebrations, Sunday worship, face painting, even chores. Our dedicated staff rotate responsibilities while drawing strength in praying together.

Working around government curfews and regulations, Kids Alive staff visit in the community - providing food and other essentials, encouraging our children, and praying with their families. Our leadership also encourage one another, "Zooming in" at least once a week to pray together and make ministry adjustments in the ever-changing crisis.

   School at home - sent to teacher

Milk, spaghetti, canned foods, onions, garlic, and other essentials gratefully received by moms for their children and families.

Living it up at the Ark! With strict guest and caregiver visitation protocols, our children at the Ark are isolated but also safe from the pandemic - safe enough to enjoy their time together! Online and under-the-tree classes, Bible studies, games, face painting, outdoor cooking, eating, and Zoom conversations with family, teachers, and community make the best of difficult circumstances.

With schools ordered closed by the government, our staff at Eva Russell School have adapted to a new ministry - buying wholesale foods and other essentials and distributing in family-sized packs to our children and their families. In these economically challenging times, job losses and rising food prices have had a widespread impact, and families are grateful to line up - with appropriate distancing - to receive these welcome gifts.

Zoom calls are bridging the COVID-19 distancing gap, bonding our teams together with prayer, Bible studies, and encouragement.

Even as life across Dominican Republic gets challenging with the spread of the virus, leading to illness, job losses, and soaring food prices, life within the Ark Jarabacoa compound looks pretty normal, and on some days, even celebratory. Kids Alive's stringent guest and caregiver visitation protocols not only insulate and protect our children from the pandemic but also provide a safe haven to celebrate the gift of life.

Within the confines of the Ark, children study, clean up, cook, eat, groom, dance, study Scripture, train, and even picnic together with their caregivers!

As the fight against COVID-19 gets deeper and more protracted, our formidable staff ministry-warriors dig their heels in even deeper to assist our children and their families with food and other essentials, information on the pandemic, and moral support. All sites continue to be kept scrupulously clean, and our staff are busy procuring wholesale food and delivering packages to families in need. School staff and leadership meet at least once a week via Zoom to confer, pray, and encourage each other.

COVID-19 presented many challenges for the seven Kids Alive schools in the Dominican Republic. Our first priority became keeping the children, their families, and our employees safe from a new and deadly disease about which little was known. Secondly, when schools were closed and the country locked down in mid-March, we had the challenge of continuing the education and emotional care for 2,000 impoverished children with difficult family situations. Finally, with massive unemployment (we estimate 80-90% of our school families are currently unemployed with no savings or credit), and no school breakfasts and lunches, many of our children and their families quickly began to suffer from lack of food.

Our staff responded quickly and creatively. We created protocols for handwashing, social distancing, wearing masks, and sanitizing groceries, and began distributing information to families in various ways, including video clips they could watch on cell phones. Additionally, our teachers and counselors worked with parents to get classroom study material, family devotionals, and other activities into the home as well as help create healthy routines for the children with so much time in their little homes. Furthermore, for a limited time we transitioned in one aspect to a relief organization, and with the help of generous donors grew our food distribution to feed over 1,200 families regularly during the quarantine period which recently ended. Our relief work is likely to continue for the next several months on a lesser level as parts of the economy remain shut and many children and their families lack adequate food.

RESIDENTIAL HOMES

More than anything in recent years, COVID-19 has highlighted the strength and dedication of our residential ministries in the Dominican Republic, as our three projects in close collaboration are adapting well to minister effectively during these difficult times. In mid-March, to keep children and caregivers safe, our campuses were closed, with children and parents safely sequestered, along with adequate food supply in anticipation of possible shortages. To ensure children’s safety, entry to the residential homes was restricted to essential caregivers while older youth took on the responsibilities of cleaning and other chores. Directors and parents at the residential sites created “summer camp type” schedules integrating academics, devotions, recreation, and other special activities such as a movie night, picnics, and a dress-up gala to keep children’s spirits high. We are now planning a special summer vacation for our house parents to give them a two-week break from shouldering the much heavier responsibilities due to the pandemic.

Sheltered together in close proximity with limited support and no interaction with others outside the walls, families have bonded more closely and the youth have embraced additional responsibilities, and many have grown spiritually. All are grateful for the protection and provision they have received during this unique time.

Dominican Republic Update with Vic and Leslie Trautwein

We hosted a virtual “family meeting” with Country Director Vic Trautwein and his wife Leslie and members of the Kids Alive Development staff on April 15, to share with site partners and generous supporters first-hand how the ministry is responding to the COVID-19 crisis in the midst of urgent needs, and to share ongoing needs for prayer. 

If you were not able to be with us, would like to listen again, or would like to share the call with other interested friends, the video of the call is here:

https://player.vimeo.com/video/408182202

And if you’d like to give a special gift to help our DR ministries during the current crisis, you can do that here.

SCHOOLS

Kids Alive is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic by ensuring that our students stay on track and engaged in their education, even during these challenging times. We’re doing this through adapting lessons for distance learning, using online options, providing photocopied study resources delivered by our staff, facilitating telephone consultations with teachers, and organizing WhatsApp groups for parents to keep in touch and stay informed about their kids’ work. Our counselors are monitoring students and sending short videos to the families on how to handle stress and how to keep children active.

Many of our children come from families where there is now no income, and the children are at risk of hunger, malnutrition, and or getting food from unsafe sources. So we’re using the budgets normally allocated for school meals to help feed families of our kids and community members with basic non-perishable foods and, in some cases, cooked meals. And as we make home visits to our kids with food and educational material deliveries as well as tips on hygiene and disease prevention, we’re making the most of every opportunity to share the Gospel and bring hope!

RESIDENTIAL HOMES

Kids Alive is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic by doing all we can to keep our residential kids healthy, occupied, and productive. We’ve put in place sturdy protocols for hygiene and safety, many times exceeding the country and community standards where we serve. Our kids are learning to take responsibility for their health as well as their housemates and caregivers, and in many cases, they are stepping up to fulfill roles left temporarily empty by staff members who can’t get into work. Under the direction of our medical advisers, we have designated and prepared safe, comfortable quarters for any child or staffer who might need to be quarantined for a time.

Our house parents and staffers are creating schedules for Bible study and devotional times, educational and sports activities, chores, study sessions, and “downtime,” making sure that we maximize variety and use these times of isolation wisely. Our psychologists and counselors are talking regularly with all of our kids about the changes that have taken place, and we’re closely monitoring them for emotional health. We’re also having church services at our children’s homes and allowing kids to worship and even lead in worship. The world may look out of control to human eyes, but God’s children can rest in His perfect control!

Site partners and generous supporters of Kids Alive’s Oasis ministry in Guatemala attended a virtual “family meeting” with Country Director Corbey Dukes and members of the Kids Alive Development staff on April 1, hearing first-hand how the ministry has responded to the COVID-19 crisis in the midst of the urgent needs there. 

Corbey also shared information about how our girls there are responding to the current stress and how they and our incredible staff are supporting one another and leaning into the faithfulness of their loving Father.

If you were not able to be with us, would like to listen again, or would like to share the call with other interested friends, the audio of the call is here:

[embed]https://www.kidsalive.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/corbey-zoom-20200401b-audio.m4a[/embed]

And if you’d like to give a special gift to help cover increased food and other costs at Oasis during the current crisis, you can do that here: [link]

Support Our Ministries in Guatemala »

Here is information about the Pastors' Vision Trip mentioned on the call:

Check-ups at Kids Alive International

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Welcoming students back to school after the holiday break

Girls in Casa Ester

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Activities and quality time with loved ones.

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Sports are a community building activity filled with valuable lessons and joyful experiences.

Working diligently, restoration, and fun!

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Our kids participating in Baton Ballet Competition

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A day filled with lively skits, joyful dances, and heartfelt worship, all topped off with a nutritious meal. It was a time to come together, celebrate, and enjoy each other's company.

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First to tenth graders celebrate Three Kings Day in Palo Blanco

Face-painting, blowing bubbles, embroidery and bracelet making, clowning, and Bible storytelling via drama, topped by community trash collection - all a part of life at Palo Blanco!

The visiting Wellspring Alliance Church team shared their love of God by engaging with the children at Palo Blanco through these activities. Then, in partnership with a group of high schoolers from Palo Blanco, the team collected trash from the local community areas, setting new standards for hygiene.

A baptism at Oasis is a special event that brings our girls, young women, and their children together to celebrate the commitment of each individual as they invite Jesus into their lives.

From the Country Director's Desk

Wow, what a year! I want to thank our team – staff, and supporters! In addition to the “normal” great things that happen at Source of Hope, Oasis, Arquilla, Casa Ester and Families Together, this year Kids Alive Guatemala accomplished the following:

• 12 students graduated from Source of Hope, all achieving a higher level of education (completing 9th grade) than their parents
• 10 alumnae of Source of Hope graduated from high school to join university
• Provided scholarships to three Source of Hope graduates
• Opened an on-campus home for babies of Arquilla girls being placed for adoption
• Opened an on-campus home for girls at Oasis to help with the transition to Casa Ester "independence program"
• Launched Estercitas program at Casa Ester for young women with disabilities
• Leased to buy land for expanding work at Casa Ester – which is reaching its capacity with 24 young girls and women
• Succeeded in getting the first two convictions that sent perpetrators to over 20 years in prison sentences
• Launched “Your Compass,” a community outreach program in Escuintla to raise awareness of sexual abuse in churches, schools, and other organizations
• Two teen moms with their babies placed into foster families
• 27 girls and young women at Arquilla, Oasis, and Casa Ester were baptized
• Recognized by the Supreme Court of Guatemala for our contribution to the Child Protection System
• Relocated a family to Peru for their personal safety
• Launched a 2-day training program to share all we have learned in Oasis, Arquilla, and Families Together that has been attended by 21 local and regional organizations and the following Kids Alive offices – Kids Alive International, Peru, Dominican Republic, Kenya, and Zambia

Whew. It was nice to have a breather during the holidays and we are excited about 2020!

God's Peace,

Corbey Dukes

Guatemala Country Director

Kids Alive International

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Kids Alive's dedicated teachers not only educate children but also serve as adult Christian role models for the children to emulate.

A visiting medical team provide students of Ark Constanza with health checkups, growth monitoring, follow up and treatment to ensure children's all-around growth.

While it is customary in the United States to exchange presents on Christmas Day, in the Dominican Republic, Three Kings Day, January 6, is the day when presents are exchanged. It marks the day when the three kings, or the Magi, presented their offerings to baby Jesus. (This day is known in America as Epiphany Sunday, and is celebrated by some churches in America.) Many of you as Kids Alive supporters make this day special for the children with your generous gifts. Thank you! We enjoyed the Three Kings Day celebrations at ANIJA.

Students showcase various projects to demonstrate their learning throughout the year. This annual event is followed by Christmas and the Three Kings Day celebrations. In the Dominican Republic, Christmas is celebrated from 25 December to January 6th, culminating in the Three Kings Day (Three Magis Day). Epiphany, as it's known in the English speaking world marks the day when the Magi met and presented their gifts to baby Jesus. In the Dominican Republic, gifts are exchanged on this day celebrated on 6 January.

Scooters and skateboard presents were the most popular this year, turning the basketball court into a riding field!

In the Dominican Republic, Christmas celebrations start on 25 December and finishes on Three Kings Day on January 6th. Children expectantly survey the "presentscape" before the Three Kings Day celebrations and then go on to deftly open their precious presents!

This, once-thriving area of Villa Ascensions had a thriving economy based on sugarcane cultivation and sugar production. But now the field's are overgrown with foliage and the sugar factory is deserted. This has put immense hardship on families. However, improved education through Kids Alive's Park School is laying the foundation for alternate career opportunities for children.

House moms baking cookies for their children as a part of the Christmas festivities while having lots of fun!

In Guatemala, Christmas is traditionally celebrated with close family and friends on Christmas Eve, or “Noche Buena.” At Oasis, we enjoy an evening together eating a turkey dinner (with turkeys donated for each of the individual houses) and the traditional helping of tamales. “Ponche,” a warm cider beverage made with various fruits, is often the drink of choice.

After this traditional meal and fellowship, we take time to worship, followed by a number of fun and engaging games and activities. Each of the houses prepares and performs a short Christmas skit around a pre-selected theme, such as Santa’s Wacky Sleigh, Super Hero, and Disney. The house that is voted the winner receives some fun treats and movies to enjoy on Christmas.

Before midnight each girl from Oasis and Casa Ester receives a stocking filled with small gifts and an individually wrapped gift. At midnight we all gather to enjoy the customary display of fireworks. Across the dark horizon, fireworks splash across the sky like camera flashes in a dark stadium attempting to capture the defining moment of a championship game. After the fireworks display, everyone greets each other and returns to their home. Christmas morning is celebrated by taking things slow and waking up later than the usual 5:30 am!

For young girls rescued from abuse, Christmas at Oasis is a much deeper experience – a place where they can be children once again, secure and valued as a person rather than as an object for exploitation. This is what Leslyn, 18, says about Christmas at Oasis:

“I am very thankful for this special time that we set aside at Christmas. I really enjoy every moment that we spend together because we receive gifts and that makes me feel very joyful. I remember that God gave His only Son to die for us. Before, I thought about my Christmas gift and every year I was eager to receive it. But now that I see things better I am also grateful for all of the people that organize these activities with love. They are very special to each of the girls that make up Oasis. And even though I always miss my family, I always remember that God put Oasis in my life not only to help me grow spiritually but also to always be united as a family. [My favorite parts of Christmas Eve] are enjoying the “ponche” (fruit cider), tamales, and the midnight display of fireworks — and these are the moments that I treasure in my heart.”

The Source of Hope school in El Zapote is operated by Kids Alive in partnership with Iglesia Galilea (Church of Galilee) in San Lucas. During Christmas, Iglesia Galilea provides each student with Christmas presents, including a new pair of shoes.

The young ladies from Casa Ester enjoyed "Noche Buena" or Christmas Eve celebration at Oasis last year. A week before Christmas, a church group from the United States came to celebrate with the girls at Casa Ester. Their trip came during the afternoon and evening, and they cooked dinner with the young ladies, learning to prepare a typical Guatemalan dessert. After dinner, they had a bonfire and sang worship songs and karaoke!

Our children come from densely populated city barrios, so a field, even a small one, is a source of delight - a place they can run around, play games, and indulge in the king of Dominican games - soccer.

While the children enjoy sports and games on the field, they work hard in the classrooms as well,  for example, mastering math, which will give them a head start in their careers of choice. Close interaction with their teachers helps restore the trust that has either been missing or in some cases abused in the children's previous engagement with the adults around them.

The school also offers nutritious meals to ensure children get a balanced diet, as most come from homes where meat and other sources of protein, essential for physical and intellectual growth, are rare or missing altogether.

Kindergartners to high schoolers entertain their parents with stage performances to celebrate Jesus' birth in last year's Christmas pageantry.

Children and teachers prep for Christmas celebrations last year.

Christmas is celebrated with much gusto at Park School! Celebrations start in December and go on till January 6, culminating in celebrating The Kings Day (or the Three Kings Day), commemorating the Three Wise Men or Kings presenting their gifts to Jesus. In these pictures from last year's Park School Christmas celebrations, children get ready in colorful costumes for the Christmas pageant which is followed by a sumptuous meal, dances, and a play, and with more than just the customary three Wise Men! Amidst the celebrations, children are reminded of God's love for them and Jesus as His gift to all.

Each class preps hard to perform for their parents and the school community. Teachers give selflessly to these young children who rarely have an opportunity to dress up, and perform on stage. They practice diligently for their performances to impress their parents and community.

On the big day, students and staff enjoy a delicious pork meal. The school always cooks enough for each child to take home a large box of food for their families. The children dash home with their boxes and then return to school to get ready for their presentation. Teachers and assistants work with the children on their costumes and makeup. Excitement and energy fill the air!

Having the opportunity to perform on stage boosts the children's confidence in themselves and builds self-esteem. Most of these children come from homes that lack daily food, have no running water, and are frequently in a state of crisis. This day is a beautiful and uplifting pause, a day that they give to each other, to their families however broken they might be, and to their community. Each of these little ones is special to God.!

Students at ANIJA celebrate "El Major Regalo" or "The Best Gift" at their local church Christmas celebrations. Some of the kids are dressed up as angels, another is dressed up as Mary, while an older one narrates the Christmas story. Christmas celebrations in our churches are simple and conclude with a dinner together. Many of the Kids Alive staff are actively involved in this church which further deepens our ties to the children and their community.  

ANIJA teachers and staff join the children for Christmas festivities in an evening full of games, laughter, and great food at the annual Christmas dinner. The staff chip in to decorate the campus, creating a beautiful venue in an area usually full of kids playing four-square and hopscotch. The celebrations begin with a time of worship and a devotional to keep all hearts focused on the true reason for the joy and celebration. A wild game of “White Elephant” gift exchange is a favorite,  complete with unusual items and gift “stealing”! One truly experiences and senses the "ANIJA family" during evenings such as these, full of laughter, love, and fellowship.

Casa Monte Plata celebrates Christmas with a special dinner. Everyone dresses up in their best clothes and looks forward to an evening of delicious food, worship dances, and a devotion from the director. Special friends are invited to join in the festivities, including Kids Alive's Dominican board of directors, the counselor, and our missionaries.

Gifted hands convert the multipurpose room at Casa Monte Plata, into a beautiful Christmas banquet hall! The family units sit together, enjoying the food, songs, dances, Scripture readings, and teachings. The older children help prepare and guide the younger ones with love and care. It is beautiful to see the depth of love and trust that exists on this campus as they celebrate Jesus’ birth!

Christmas celebrations are held on Christmas Eve, when children and their families join in celebrations with a feast, worship, dancing, and warm ginger tea to keep away the winter chills. The focus of the celebrations is on Jesus’ birth. On Christmas Day, families enjoy leftovers together. These photos are from last year's Christmas and Kings Day celebrations. Read the captions for more on "Kings Day."

Christmas is celebrated with much gusto at Santo Domingo North School. While some Dominicans frown on the early start of Christmas celebrations, the Dominican Christmas celebration lasts till January 6, concluding with "The Kings Day" (also known as "The Three Kings Day")! This national holiday marks the Wise Men's presentation of gifts to baby Jesus. Yellow-colored clothing is worn to mark this celebration.

While Christmas is celebrated by exchanging presents, delicious meals, and fun activities, the children are reminded of the reason we celebrate Christmas and God's most precious gift of  Jesus. The Christmas pageant and other skits and drama reiterate God's salvation offered to all.

We celebrated Christmas and The Kings Day celebrations last year. Our students, from poor homes where parents cannot afford presents, take great delight in receiving presents from the school.

The celebratory meal and presents follow a message about Jesus' birth from Margaret and her husband Juan, who established the school.

Students and teachers at Eva Russell School celebrated Culture Day, complete with customary festivities of sweet treats and historical reenactments of Columbus' arrival to the Dominican Republic. They were incredibly proud to show off their baking and sandwich-making skills. The excitement continued with outdoor games, songs, and dances.

Whatever the event, being together is always a joyful time at Santo Domingo East!

Recognition and presentation of the children's work affirm the children and their intellectual growth. Expanding a child's worldview beyond the walls of their family, community, and country is critical to their growth. This is especially true for the primary students on presentation day with fellow classmates exploring global topics like air pollution.

The students at Anija School are excited and proud to show off their colorful uniforms and backpacks. As parent-teacher conferences take place, families and educators collaborate to develop new avenues of learning for children.  Thanks to the teachers at Anija, our students can be proud of both the large and small milestones in life.

A love for learning is shared by all of our students at Ark Constanza Home and School. Interactive lessons from learning language skills, history, geography, and science to mastering computers, all reflect the quality of the education. Discussion groups keep students engaged and included in conversations as tactile tools like exercise balls become a regular part of educational learning. For some, lunch and soccer during recess may just be another routine, but to a Kids Alive student, these routines instill hope, joy, and restoration. 

Preschoolers at Palo Blanco marked Dominican Republic's Culture Day with colorful skits to celebrate the country's diversity, reconciliation, and the arrival of Christopher Columbus. Kids dressed up as King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella and crew members of Columbus' ships -- Santa Maria, Pinta, and Nina -- to enact Columbus' first encounter with the local Taino people.

On most days, enthusiasm is manifested in the joy, cheerfulness, and high-octane energy in the classroom and on the field at Ark Jarabacoa. But on rare occasions, a fruitful and an exhausting day results in chilling together! Discussion groups led by caregivers, teachers, or house parents, or a bit of fun like a weekend movie create balance and facilitate a sense of order in the lives of the children. Spending time together and intentionally participating in both educational and fun activities help children bond and learn social skills.

There's never a dull moment at Santo Domingo North school! Children are engaged in a variety of activities, whether it's having fun or turning to God in prayer!

Brisa’s* childhood came to an abrupt end the day she discovered her father’s body, lying lifeless and cold. And before she could recover from the loss of her father, her mother died.

Having alcoholic parents, life wasn’t exactly ideal for Brisa, but it was better than being orphaned with two younger sisters to support. Brisa and her sisters were sent to live with an uncle, but this shelter came at a cost. Both she and her sister Madelyn were cruelly beaten regularly by their uncle. Eventually Brisa and Madelyn moved to live with an aunt, while their youngest sister Dayana stayed with their uncle. Though separated from their youngest sister, Brisa and Marcela began to live a “normal” life with their aunt. But the normalcy was short-lived, as Brisa soon discovered that their cousin was abusing Madelyn in the same way he had abused Brisa when she was younger. They told their aunt, but the aunt did nothing. However, when the cousin’s wife heard of the abuse, she was alarmed and took action. That is when Brisa and Madelyn were taken away to the safety of the government-run children’s home.

In 2011, Kids Alive’s Oasis ministry heard of the girl’s plight and invited them to stay at the Oasis to receive the help they needed. Two years later, their youngest sister, Dayana, who they barely knew, united with them at Oasis. Here the three sisters began to learn to live together. At first, it wasn’t easy – the three struggled to adapt and to trust that they wouldn’t be hurt anymore by the adults around them. Over time, the three came to know Jesus. Their hearts, hardened by years of abuse and the sadness of losing their parents, slowly began to soften and heal. At Oasis, Brisa and her sisters came to know a very sweet friendship, grounded in their belief in the Lord and love for each other. They now care deeply for each other and spend as much time together as possible. While Brisa, now 17, has moved to the pre-independence program, she is often seen enjoying a meal or a laugh while visiting her sisters. The pre-independence program prepares girls on the threshold of young adulthood to live independently. All three girls have expressed a strong desire to be together as a family once they all graduate from school. In the meantime, they have adjusted well to life at the Oasis.

Brisa is quiet but driven. She recently started working on-site at the Oasis daycare while finishing up her schooling on Saturdays. She has found favor with her Kids Alive teachers, missionaries, and house parents for her strong work ethic, desire to learn, and her loving and kind demeanor. Her enthusiasm and devotion to pursuing the Lord, as well as being a fierce protector of her sisters, have already brought her far. The Oasis staff look forward to what the Lord has in store for Brisa as she navigates through late teens to adulthood while leading and guiding her younger sisters.

Brisa is a different girl from the abused, neglected, and fearful child she was when she arrived at Oasis. She is now a young woman who radiates the hope of the Lord as she playfully laughs with and encourages those around her.

*Names changed for privacy 

Teacher Counts Her Blessings!  

This was Glancy’s first year teaching at Source of Hope. Previously she worked at a convenience store. Glancy now team teaches sixth graders at Source of Hope, and she brings her strong quality of compassion to the children she teaches. “I enjoy teaching because I am able to do something for the students here beyond anything I could have in customer service, and I love it here especially because this school gives a good education based on Christian values." She says she feels affirmed by God, and added, "Since I’ve started teaching here, amazing things have happened in my life; my entire family has accepted Christ as (their) Savior!" Source of Hope is grateful to have Glancy as one of our teachers and we’re excited to see what the future holds for her.

Children's Day Celebration

October 1 is celebrated as Children's Day in Guatemala. The staff loves celebrating their students and just letting them “be kids” for the day. The day is celebrated with the teachers dressing in silly costumes with a dash of delicious food, games, dancing, and music! We at Source of Hope thank God for each of these children and are honored to celebrate them on this special day.

New Kids at Santo Domingo North

In early September, 25 new students joined our school! The newest class of three-year-olds was chosen from among the most needy families living within a mile of the school. And now, these new kids are getting into the rhythm of life at their new school - studying, hanging out with friends, celebrating birthdays, and having fun.

In many cases, these children have teenage moms and absentee dads; consequently, the children wind up being raised by their grandmothers. Tragically, this is a common situation among the poor in the Dominican Republic. At Santo Domingo North school, we usually have more student-candidates than space in a classroom, so it is quite challenging to decide on whom to admit.

On the positive side, those who join our school are far more likely to graduate from high school, be healthy emotionally, physically, and spiritually, and have a positive impact on their family and community. Please pray that each of these new students will grow to be agents of change for God in their homes, families, communities, and country. 

Children play, pray, and proudly display their artwork.

Every year Kids Alive offices around the globe set aside a day to praise and thank God for His blessings. This year the Global Day of Prayer was on the 8th of October. All staff and students took time to worship and praise God for his amazing love and provisions. Pre-schoolers to high-schoolers joined their teachers in prayer for the work at their own sites and for all of Kids Alive's work around the world.

At Casa Ester these young survivors get a second chance at life. The quiet surroundings, sustained abuse and trauma counseling, education, and skills training programs – in a nurturing and caring environment – lift the spirits of girls coming from abusive homes and set them on the path to healing. Kids Alive's mission is to display God's love in action in keeping with Matt 25:40: "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did it for me." It's the way our girls move from surviving to thriving!

Liliana* grew up in a seemingly “healthy” family, but she held a dark and painful secret.

One day Liliana began to be sexually abused by a family member. Her abuser threatened her not to tell anyone. Scared for her life, she kept the painful secret to herself. Liliana was 11 when the abuse began.

Following months of abuse, Liliana couldn’t endure it anymore and mustered up the courage to share her pain with her mother. That conversation left her more vulnerable and even more fearful.

Though she believed Liliana, her mother’s hands were tied and she took no action. Soon, another adult member of the community abused Liliana. Once again she reported the incident to her mother, and again, received no help. Terrified of further abuse, Liliana took the painful step of leaving her family, moving out of her home to live with her extended family further from her remote town north of Guatemala City.

Soon after her move, Liliana found out that she was pregnant. Terrified of what lay ahead and with the fear of further abuse, she sought shelter in a government-run girl's home.

During her short stay at the government home, Liliana pursued her studies, received counseling, and gave birth to her baby when she 16 years old. However, the under-resourced government shelter wasn’t the best place for Liliana to grow up or raise her baby.

Soon after her baby’s birth, Kids Alive International heard of Liliana’s plight and invited her and her baby to stay at La Arquilla, Oasis’ home for child-moms. At Oasis, Liliana began to attend trauma-focused therapy, receive individualized education, and learned to care for her baby as a new mom. Liliana also began to take sewing classes.

Soon her teachers and house parents were impressed with Liliana’s overall progress and quick adjustment to her new situation. They found Liliana to be quiet but fiercely determined. Her bravery and sweet demeanor is both endearing and inspiring to all those around her.

At Oasis, Liliana also learned about God’s love for her and her baby. She recently decided to be baptized. At her baptism, she emerged out of the water with a broad smile on her face, proclaiming that she is a child of God, chosen, powerful, clean, and a work of art. All those who know Liliana agree.

The Lord is doing tremendous work in Liliana’s heart, raising her up as a leader, and rewriting her story. From a scared child, a victim of sexual abuse, a child-mom, Liliana is now emerging as a strong, loving mom who brings smiles to the faces of all those around her.

During her time at La Arquilla, Liliana was assigned to a Mentor Family. Mentor Families are a part of Kids Alive's innovative program where caring Guatemalan Christian families visit, encourage, and provide mentorship to survivors of sexual abuse and young moms without families. Occasionally, Mentor Families seek Kids Alive’s assistance to be trained as foster parents or guardians. As it turned out, Liliana’s Mentor Family stepped forward to seek this training and then surprised Liliana by inviting her and her baby to be a part of their family.

The young teenage-mom, once abused and afraid, has found new hope in her identity in Christ and a new Christian family that loves both her and her child.

*Name changed to protect identity

With summer vacation behind them, children eagerly return to school to reconnect with their friends and begin a new school session. But first, they had a little more of summer fun…..!

When the usually cheerful Meredith* arrived at the discipleship group looking distraught, everyone noticed the missing smile on her face. After worship, the students divided into groups of five to six to share and pray for each other. As they shared their prayer requests, Meredith burst into tears and poured out her heart to the members of her small group.

At the end of the group prayer, Sarah, an older student who hadn't heard of Meredith’s plight, independently sensed God’s leading to pray for Meredith. So she asked the larger discipleship group members to pray.

The entire group surrounded Meredith asking God to comfort her, her family, for their safety and for His provisions, and that God would continue to work in their lives. After prayer, as the group left for their homes, Meredith walked out of the room feeling comforted and with her usual smile restored.

It wasn’t until later Meredith shared that while her mother was walking home from the church alone the previous evening, a man had threatened to attack her. In response, her mother prayed out loud, and the man stopped in his tracks. Meredith’s mother was shaken, but physically unharmed.

We are thankful for God’s hand of protection over Meredith’s mother and thankful for the sense of community that our students are finding in the discipleship group. Our goal is to create a safe place in which students can openly share their struggles and concerns. We are also in awe of how God is growing students like Sarah to be bold and act on what He is revealing them.

*Name changed to protect privacy

After summer vacation, school starts with hope and new beginnings. Young students exuberantly regale their friends with their vacation adventures; some of our older students, often survivors of abuse, celebrate caring new mentor families or guardian parents. For young child-moms and their babies, mentors and "forever families" mean a chance for a new life, a reminder of God's abundance and provision. 

Behind every successful Kids Alive program is a dedicated staff member committed to serving children. Many children in our programs come from at-risk situations with a history of abuse, neglect, and other situations causing trauma. Ministering to them holistically - addressing their physical, emotional, spiritual and other needs, requires having psychologists on staff at Kids Alive schools. This past school year, we hired Alexandra as our new psychologist, and she's been a great blessing to the students and staff. She works closely with students who need help with behavioral issues as well as focusing on their studies. Alexandra is one of the school's Trauma Competent Caregiving Champions. Cory Pisano, Service Team Host and Sponsorship Coordinator for Park School, spoke with Alexandra recently.  

Cory Pisano (CP):  Tell me a little about yourself.

Alexandra: My name is Alexandra Ortiz. I was born in Cantabria, Puerto Plata. My father is Dominican, and my mother was born in Haiti. My mother returned to Haiti when I was one year old, so I don't know her at all.

I am a licensed psychologist.  I studied psychology in Puerto Plata at Universidad Tecnologica de Santiago. I have been married for two years and have a one-year-old son.

CP:  What started your interest in psychology?

Alexandra: I've always had an interest in science and dreamed of working for NASA in the United States. However, I knew that was very difficult, so when I entered university and was exploring career options, I fell in love with psychology because of its universal importance to life in general.

CP: What does a typical school day look like for you?

Alexandra: Realistically there isn't a normal day at the school; however, my role at the school involves a lot of observation in the classrooms. I observe the students and how they interact with one another to get to know their behaviors. I work closely with the principal of the school, and when there are conflicts between students that require further deeper investigation to resolve, I work with them one on one. I also work with family members to understand how these specific students act at home so I can help them with their behavior.

CP: What is your favorite part of this job? What has been the biggest blessing?

Alexandra: My favorite part of the job is when a student who has trouble learning or is struggling with personal issues comes to me for guidance and help. I'm able to understand them, encourage them, and help them be more successful in the classroom. Seeing them succeed and realize their potential is the greatest blessing.

CP: How has this transformed your life? Have you seen any transformation in kids?

Alexandra: Being in this position has had a major effect on my life. The trauma competent caregiving training that we received as a school staff allowed me to understand events from my past in a different way that brought me so much clarity. Also, being a mother has changed the way I interact with my son as well. A child who I have seen transformed is Abigail*. This past year I worked closely with Abigail, who is almost completely blind. I taught her how to read Braille, which will allow her to learn and succeed so much more in the future.

CP: What are your goals for this school year?

Alexandra: One goal I have for this year is for more students to have an improved ability to learn in the classroom. Another goal is that everything that we talk about emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually will allow them to make better decisions in their future.

*Name changed to protect privacy

The school year ended with the little ones graduating from their class before the summer vacation in July. August saw those returning from vacation eager to reconnect with their friends, while some newcomers suffered from first-day jitters! The start of the new school year also saw the older students being prepped to enter the workforce during the Youth Survivor Camp.

Evan* is conflicted, and it's over a serious issue. After all, it concerns his future when he grows up. But it's a welcome conflict over whether to pursue a career in business or become a teacher.

The 8th grader is dreaming big and that puts him ahead of many children in his neighborhood. With few resources and limited educational opportunities, it is rare for most children in his community to dream big. But that is changing.  

Evan’s father ekes out a living clearing farmland while his mother cares for the children and home. Lacking resources, both parents dropped out of school in the second grade, keeping them in a world of long, hard hours of labor with poor wages.  

Under-resourced schools and poor educational infrastructure defines a child's future, often locking them into a cycle of poverty. Hence, most children in Evan's neighborhood wind up in the footsteps of their parents, harvesting sugar cane, coffee beans, or clearing land for cultivation.

That cycle was broken when three years ago Evan transferred from the poorly resourced local school to the Kids Alive's Source of Hope School. This set Evan on a new path and new ambitions.

When asked to compare how school is different from his earlier schooling experience, he says, “At Source of Hope, the classes are more challenging, the staff and teachers are friendlier and I am learning more."

Source of Hope staff strive to create a nurturing environment for children coming from at-risk situations by providing them with a holistic education.

This holistic education includes meeting children’s all-round physical, emotional, educational, and spiritual needs. Evan is an active member of the discipleship group that meets at his school in the afternoons. He says he enjoys group meetings and being with his friends while learning more about Jesus. He’s made two close friends in this group and they've been a great support and comfort to him while he went through rough times.

Source of Hope School has repeatedly exceeded education standards set by the Guatemala’s Ministry of Education. The fruits of this quality education can be seen in many students who, like Evan, are dreaming big and doing well to pursue their dreams. Those who once aimed to become hired farmhands like their parents now dream of becoming teachers, social workers, business persons, and doctors.

We are so grateful to watch God breaking the cycle of despair which once held the village of Zapote in bondage. Evan is just one of the many examples of what God is doing here.

*name changed.

While summer vacation was a blast, kids enjoyed being back in school!

"The first day of class, a place where I learn and have fun!” read the welcoming sign lovingly made by the teachers of Palo Blanco for their three-year-old new students and those returning after summer vacation.

Despite the new faces and routine, and the distance from their parents, the three-year-olds seem to be enjoying their new school giving it an air of celebration.

The dedication of Palo Blanco's teachers makes the school a welcoming and nurturing place for the kids.

Kids Alive strives to make every site a place where children can experience love, joy, and friendships, laying a foundation for their faith. Whether it's cooking or art class, training sessions or the playing field, God's love is shared with all the children in La Arquilla. This expression of love assumes greater poignancy for these teenage moms and their children. You can see it reflected back at you in the smiles on their faces.

Located on the side of a terraced hill and surrounded by lush tropical greenery, Ark Jarabacoa provides children a soothing setting in a nurturing environment, where they can move from surviving to thriving. Site Partnership makes it possible for at-risk children to study, establish friendships, and develop a close relationship with God. Here are some of our kids enjoying their lovely surroundings.

Another day to celebrate friendships with smiles at Source of Hope!

The crafting of bead necklaces, bracelets, and earrings at Casa Ester gives abused girls and young women opportunities to express themselves through art therapy for trauma-related pain while developing marketable skills. The concentration and focus needed for jewelry-making takes their minds off trauma, channeling their energy into creativity while restoring a sense of control over their lives.

Recess at Park School is a fun time to catch up with friends, play on the field, and climb the jungle gym!

Behind every smiling child's face is a dedicated Ark Constanza staff member quietly working behind the scenes - cooking, sweeping floors, washing laundry, and doing many other chores to ensure Ark Constanza bears witness to God's love, even in the small things.

Health, dental, and vision checkups and care are integral to our work at Eva Russell School to ensure children's all-round development.