CHEERING FAMILIES ON

Ana, now almost sixteen years old, has had hopes of being able to spend time with her mother for many years now. Although some difficult circumstances required separation, Ana has always had the desire to reconnect and build a better relationship. A little over a year ago, Ana was able to reconnect with her mother who now visits every month on our Family Visitation Day. Ana looks forward to their time together and has been intentional about spending that time together well.

Ana felt like she was ready to spend a long weekend with her mother over the August vacations. She knew there were many obstacles that had to be overcome in order for that to happen. Actually, it would take a miracle. But Ana began to pray, and she wrote a letter to the courts sharing her heart. Then she waited.

In El Salvador, each town has a patron saint that is honored and celebrated throughout the year. In the capital city of San Salvador, the patron saint is Jesus. The holidays fall on August 5th and 6th, but because these days coincide with another holiday, most make a bridge between the two that often gets extended into a full week. Because schools are closed, it has become a perfect time for some of the families we work with to connect.

Just one day before vacations were to start, we received notice from the courts that Ana was going to be able to spend a long weekend with her mother. Faith, prayer and a determined spirit made this dream a reality. Ana enjoyed her time getting to connect and know her mother even more. Her hopes are set on the entire time she gets to spend an extended time with her mother.

Within La Casa, six of the children spent some quality time home with either family or extended family during the August vacations. Work that has been intentional and consistent leads to being able to spend time with family. Cheering families on is one thing we have to do … or should we better say, “Get to do.”