We're Back!

Hi everyone!

We arrived in Waverly at 6:00 this morning safe and sound.

This trip was one of my best. The thing that will stay with me the most is what I learned about the children of the Dominican Republic. Lots of children don't have the opportunity to enjoy a childhood without worries, like many do in the United States, and that bothers me. They live in hunger and sickness, most are obligated to making money for the family.

One important event that occurred between now and the last blog was our visit to Batey Esperanza. Esperanza is the spanish word for "hope." This batey, like the others, is muddy, littered, and run down. The poverty is very, very visible like in any other batey. But, I did see some hope. There is a newly constructed school. The school is very nice, even by U.S. standards. We donated school supplies to the school and the director is going to make sure that children with the most need will receive them. This school gives the children of the batey a chance to combat the cycle of poverty. Hopefully, they will get the education necessary to find good jobs and raise families that do not face poverty. The school and the homes in the batey have chlorinated water, which is rare. Unfortunately, the lights of the school are not working at the moment and there is theft.

Not all children are able to go to school though. For example, some children do not have the proper documentation. Some of these kids can be found trying to sell things for the family. Like Marcos, who goes to the mall to shine people's shoes. It is these stories and experiences that help me see the needs of people in this world. It is impossible to go on trips like this and not take the time to ask, "How can I help?"




Thanks for reading!

-Ann