Where are we going?
We will be going to Children’s Haven International, an orphanage/school in Reynosa, Mexico. Children’s Haven is a wonderful ministry. It is one of the few protestant/evangelical orphanages in the area, and they model their ministry to children after the family. They currently have six casas that are run by a missionary couple whose ministry is to raise the children in a Christian home.
Reynosa is a State Department Level 4: Do not travel. There is risk, but you will not be out and about in Reynosa. Once we cross the border to go to CHI, we go straight there and do not leave the grounds until we are heading to cross back over. The grounds of CHI have high walls and are secure.
We will also make a short venture into Progresso, which is a touristy area. CHI has been doing this for a long time, and it has run smoothly.
What will we be doing there?
We will be doing multiple different things, but your days will be spent doing two things:
Helping with needed projects. CHI relies on TEAMs like us, Grace, and others to come help with the labor for any and all building projects. This allows them to be financially efficient and do more with less. Last year we helped install insulation and pavers, we painted, cleaned, etc. If you have trade skills, they will find special projects for you to do.
Playing with and connecting with the Ninos. If you are under the age of 12, your job will primarily be to play with the Ninos, either at recess or before and after dinner. Adults get to play too! This is one of the most joyous parts; you get to know and enjoy the children you are serving, and see the Lord’s work in and through Children’s Haven. We will also have some VBS-style presentations and songs for the Ninos. This is a great time!