New Center!

Its been a while since I've posted, the sunshine has been a welcome distraction! Summer is in full swing and schools have been out including the one where I have been working. However, a special event did happen in February which I have yet to write about, the new center in Puente Piedra was finally completed, what an amazing accomplishment! The inauguration for the center was held Feb 19th this year. It is a beautiful white building and stands out among the shacks and dusty surroundings of this extremely poor area of Lima. The new center is not located too far from the old one, and is in an area called Las Lomas de Carabayllo (a 3 hour bus ride from where we are living). I am blown away by what one man was able to accomplish. Of course he had help, but it was his idea, his dream and his desire to selflessly dedicate all of his energy to making this happen, he is an inspiration to us all. Now even more children will be able to receive therapy services where before Peru Children's Charity steped in there was no services anywhere near this area. The center consists of 3 therapy rooms as well as a very large play area, a kitchen, 2 enormous wheelchair accessible bathrooms with running water (an anomoly in this area) and a fenced in garden.

Old Center:

In progress.....

New Center:

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Huancayo

The Christmas season is here and exciting things are happening! My husband's company has a project in the mountains here (hence the reason we moved to Lima). Part of their project is community relations where the company is commited to improving lives of people living in rural mountain communities, including those people who have disabilities. Being married to someone involved with this exciting and rewarding work certainly has it's perks! This Christmas, the company my husbands works with decided to purchase gifts for 600 children with disabilities who live in the mountains where the company has their mining exploration project. I was lucky enough to help with the purchase of these gifts which was the funnest shopping adventures I have had! I had an absolute field day in China town, chosing toys for various needs and abilities. Purchasing puzzles, games, stuffed animals, beads, balls etc by the dozen. I wish I took photos of the absolute mayhem of the market. The toys were transported to Huancayo where the events took place. Lucky for me, I also had the pleasure of assisting my husband and his colleagues in distributing the presents. A party was organized for the kids including a live band, presents for everyone and dancing. My Mum also got to join in the festivites because she happened to be visiting for Christmas, so it was sort of a family affair. For these kids, this was an opportunity that they wouldn't normally get, as presents are somewhat of a novelty. Below are some pictures of the event. A great way to share the Christmas spririt, and an unforgettable experience!