Los Algodones is a border town in Mexico, across from Yuma, AZ, that has long been known as a place to access reasonable priced dental care and pharmaceuticals, enjoy sidewalk shopping, and buy cheap booze. All of these businesses employ ladies who earn $50 to $100 a week. Before
Toma Mi Mano opened its doors in 2012, many children accompanied their mama to work or stayed in an unsafe or expensive setting which offered no educational stimulation for the child.
Although the child care home has existed since 2012, it wasn't until January of 2016 that it gained an official name and began the process of becoming a fully accredited and licensed nonprofit facility. The above photograph of the children was taken at a fund raising event sponsored by Sani Dental Group of Los Algodones. It is only with the help of their legal team that we were able to take this important step. Also in this photo is one of the Board of Directors, Moises, who is leading us in song. Adilene is one of the helpers at Toma Mi Mano; she is third from the right. Mike is on the far right and I am next to him. My name is Janice. As a retired married couple, our main mission is to raise money for Toma Mi Mano.
Toma Mi Mano is possible only with the generosity of individuals in Canada, the United States and Mexico. Each child's family pays what they can each week but the majority of the food and all of the rent is paid for with donated money. The toys, art and music supplies, books, and educational materials are all donated or bought with donated money.
The best way to tell you about Toma Mi Mano is by showing you what a recent Saturday was like at the house.
This is Delia, the beautiful house mama. She takes care of the house, makes sure that all is safe and
that the children are occupied and happy!
Helping the children to learn "opposites" in English and Spanish.
First day for a little 9 month old - needs to wait a few more months as we usually don't take children until they are 1 year old and can walk independently.
First day for this little girl and she really doesn't know what to think about all the people.
This young man takes a moment to himself; he has only been with us for a few days.
The smiles and missing teeth tell you she must be kindergarten age.
She seems to be saying... "well, maybe I could play..."
Boy's turn to make pizza for lunch for all seventeen children and 5 adults.
I love to give them new experiences. Since my Spanish is limited - communication is sometimes quite funny!
Good Dough Makers
Fun to load it up with cheese and pepperoni.
Seems like it takes forever when you are watching it bake. Many homes do not have ovens so this is a real treat for lots of reasons.
"Oh, this is hot"
"Good stuff"
After lunch, our little gal who goes to school in Yuma conducts her own class.
Recess on the bike is lots more fun than class.
Always good to have a man around to do the dishes...
"Oh, maybe this will be fun here"
Conversations...
Heavy equipment work...
This fellow was with us as a small child and is now in first grade and back with us - same great smile.
This little man was one of the children that inspired the creation of the house.
New a couple of weeks ago and very much at home now.
Love to pose - I frequently allow the children to use my camera and they take some fabulous photos.
No tears yet, just lots of apprehension.
Kleenix is in high demand year around!
I love when the kids need hugs!
"This lady is maybe ok - she gives me a bottle anyway"
Imaginative play... if only I could read minds.
Sometimes, a nap is in order.
Quiet play with Adilene
Back scratch for one of the pizza makers
Mike is teaching Adilene to read English using a child's book from Minnesota.
Nurturing...
Important discussions
Sometimes when the children photograph, their little fingers get in the way.
"Maybe she could be my friend. We both like bare feet"
"I'm ready to go home."
A little play...
Almost time for the end of the week...
Every day is a little bit different. A few things are always the same; healthy food, a safe environment and lots of love for the children in Los Algodones, Mexico
Toma Mi Mano was started with God's guidance and it is only with His Grace that it will continue.
To read more about its beginnings, take a look at www.papasmissions.blogspot.com
If you would like to make a comment or a contribution, contact:
Janice Fischer or Mike Enter
enterfischer@hotmail.com
No comments:
Post a Comment