Back to Colombia to help Venezuelan refugees.

We are headed back to Colombia in a couple weeks! When we were in Bucamaranga, Colombia, in May 2021, we met a couple who wanted to start a childcare center for the Venezuelan refugee women who had turned to prostitution to survive. This isn't to encourage prostitution but to allow the children to go to a safe place - instead of being left alone - when their mothers work.  When we first met Julian and Carolina, they had a facility that needed renovations and a vision for childcare so it was a fun time for Java Relief to jump in! Because of your generosity, Java Relief was able to provide funds for the renovation and rent for the first several months!

The center opened in August of 2021 and when we talked with them recently they had 15 children attending three days a week. The children learn math, language, and bible stories and personal care - like brushing their teeth and keeping healthy! They also receive breakfast, lunch, and a snack. The children can attend for free; the mothers only need to commit to coming once a week for a time of bible study and worship. A few weeks ago we asked what their needs were and they told us they were worried about rent and that they had eight children on the waiting list. Java Relief was able to give them $3600 for the next six months' rent and cover the cost of the children on the waiting list for the next five months. Julian and Carolina have said they never imagined that people from another country would have supported their vision! Your support has been a huge blessing to them, the children, and the mothers.

Julian and Carolina asked if we would come back to join them on a new initiative called "Knocking on Doors". We will go to the homes of local prostitutes and introduce the childcare center to those who don't know about it and for those ladies that do know, we will talk about why they aren't bringing their children.

We are very excited to be going back!