We just got back from a week long vacation in Puerta Vallarta Mexico, where we wanted to see more then the resort type area. This is when you see the real people of the area. It is also where you see the living conditions of some of the poorest.
While we were at a Sunday morning service where we were staying, we found out this particular resort was a key location for the Canadians who sponsor and run a charity called Families of the Dump.
They took a few minutes before the service and explained what they do, which is to help these families who live at the dump. Its a hand up, rather then a hand out program.
They meet every morning at 9AM, and take any one who wants to volunteer, and come see their operation, to sign up to do so. We did, sign up, and considering it was just weeks before our Thanksgiving...the timing was perfect.
These are some of the homes the families live in...
The conditions are actually much better then when they actually lived in the dump. I know when you view these pictures that is hard to believe.
They had put up their new sign the week we were there, announcing the ground breaking for a new center they are putting up, and hope to have completed in less then a year.
Some of the people who went out with us, were sponsors of some of the children, and were able to go see the kids they sponsor, and give them hugs and love. They said that about 98 cents of every dollar goes straight to the families and the schools, daycare and the needs.
The kids were playing soccer in the dirt streets, barefoot.
The kids were all smiles and laughing, and if that didn't make me feel so thankful for what my family has here in the states, nothing would.
So instead of thrift treasures, this post is about heart treasures...and thanksgiving.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Jan
