Submitted by Nellie Bos
On Dec. 25, 2013, Bill and I left Ponoka to spend a month in Baja, Mexico. Our daughter and her family were already there, so we knew there would be projects lined up for us to do. First we worked with “Safe Care International”, an orphanage/day care center that reaches out to the poorest of the poor.
We were part of the “Samaritan’s Box Gifts” campaign to deliver to approximately 50-60 children at the migrant camp.
Here you see simply deplorable conditions of poverty. Average wage is $10. a day, costs $5. for milk. Babies drink soda pop, cheaper by far. Seeing the migrant camps is a real eye opener of needy families. It was a joy to deliver gifts of hope, “Safe Care“ reaches out to some of these camps on a regular basis. The children were so happy to see us.
Next stop Vincente Guerrero, approximately 4,5 hours south of Tijuana, to begin our house build (one room 16 x 24) for a family of six who had lost their primary caregiver in a “widow maker” accident.
We were joined by 23 other folks from Alberta ranging in age from 12-70. For the next week, Bill was part of the house build. The rest of us were in teams doing various ministries. We watched eight teens in our group go to a poverty stricken seniors’ home and wash and oil cracked feet, do hands and nails and call it the highlight of their trip. We were impressed.
On Friday, we handed over the keys to the new owners proudly wearing T-shirts that Leisure Lanes of Ponoka had so generously donated. We then gave our T-shirts to the Mexicans and enjoyed the authentic Mexican meal the family had graciously prepared for us.
The rest of our stay was at a women’s shelter (New Beginnings & Restoration Place).
My main ministry of service would be teaching ladies and older teens how to sew. Sheila from Wombold Funeral Homes Ponoka had graciously donated yards and yards of fleece and other sewing materials for this endeavor. Approximately, 18 pairs of pajamas, tops, slacks, skirts, and a wedding outfit were sewn. Our team played with the children, did crafts and learning projects, baked, cleaned, sorted, etc.
I found myself not just sewing but listening to many sad stories. I found myself encouraging the ladies. A good thing a hug, tears, smiles and loving touches are the same in any language.
Thank you to all of you from Ponoka who helped in some way. It is all about teamwork and we were proud to share your support with others.
Bill and I felt like we were able to make a difference in the lives of many.
On Feb. 23, at 1:30 they will be sharing more with a power point in the Church of the Open Bible. You are welcome.