May 2024 Newsletter
May 2024 Newsletter
May 2024 Newsletter
Luke 3:10-11
“What should we do then?” the crowd asked. John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.”
Hello Friends,
What a great year we have experienced! We had the opportunity to build seven houses for some great families. We also watched several students graduate with their degrees, as well as provide support to several local ministries.
One of the ministries we have come alongside and helped is Casa Hojar, a home for the elderly. This year we had the opportunity to set up some healthy meals to be delivered during the week. We have replaced several of the beds that had been worn down to the springs, and also helped Adrian(the director) financially, for the general needs of his family.
Cristina’s ministry is ever growing and reaching out to different areas of her community and beyond. She is working in the local dump, prisons, and also the local parks. We were able to donate a generator to her ministry so they would have power in several areas where there is no electricity. We also just finished painting some rooms in her church and the feeding center, which needed some sprucing up.
Pastor Miguel and his family are very great friends, and are dear to our hearts. This year he said he was looking for a van to help transport people to church, camps, and outreaches. We were so fortunate to have ministry supporters who give freely from their loving hearts. A company in Nebraska heard of the need for a van or bus, and donated one. We were able to drive it back and donate it to Pastor Miguel’s ministry. Just this week he sent me pictures and informed me that the bus is legally licensed and insured in Mexico. The guest house on his church property needed some TLC, so we just finished giving the place a new paint job. Thank you everyone for your support! Without you, we could not do any of these projects.
The student ministry is being guided by a couple that are both retired college professors. They are working alongside Kelly and I, making this part of the ministry more effective, and relieving us of some of the duties. It has been incredible to watch some of these students we have known for 14 years, now in the workforce, and breaking the cycle of poverty in their families. It has been life changing for them. Here are a few updates:
Lucero stopped by the ministry house one Sunday in her police cruiser. This year she graduated from the police academy, and is working in the domestic violence part of the police dept. Now standing beside us with her uniform on, and a 38 Special strapped to her side, she is living her dream. I used to hug this little one 14 years ago, and squeeze her till she giggled. Now look where she is and what she has accomplished!
Andrea graduated, and now is using her psychology degree to make a difference in young children's lives.
Jamie, aka Pato, is doing well in school. He has not graduated yet, but has gained the confidence to step out of the box, and is also selling real estate while attending school.
Seeing photos of America in her white coat, as a soon to be doctor, is amazing to say the least! I remember meeting this young lady several years ago, and all she wanted was a pair of new shoes. Now she is in medical school, and doing very well.
Yasodhara graduated with a nursing degree and has been in the workforce for several years. She has decided to pursue a degree in hospital administration, so she is back in school fulfilling her dreams.
Adrianna came to Yuma last week and attended church with us. At lunch she told us that she has two jobs, thanks to her psychology degree. She told us a couple of stories of the patients she works with. Needless to say, the testimony we heard was INCREDIBLE. I could go on and on, but I will save it for another time.
All of this is possible because of the generous help from our supporters. THANK YOU!
This summer we will be doing some traveling and fundraising. We hope to see many of you as we make the rounds. Please don't forget us during the summer months, as the donations seem to dwindle a little more than any other time of the year. We are still looking to increase our scholarship fund to help with unexpected costs, like replacing computers, providing professional clothing, tuition help, etc. Seeing these students transform over the years is so inspiring!
We are so grateful for the financial support of our compassionate donors. Your generosity enables us to continue spreading the love of Jesus Christ, transforming lives, and creating a brighter future for our friends in San Luis. You are making a huge difference! Thank you for keeping us in mind, and for all your prayers. Donations can be mailed to: Casa Homes of Hope, PO Box 4671, Yuma, AZ 85365 or through our website at:
christiansinmexico.org
Prayer Requests:
Financial Support
Travel mercies
We are still looking for a couple to come alongside us, and carry on the ministry in the future.
With love and gratitude,
Curt & Kelly VanEkeren