In June 2007, COCI approved a grant for our first project sponsorship in Mexico. It is an honor to be able to provide support to our neighbors and we look forward to expanding our reach in this culturally rich and compassionate country where children are treasured.
COCI reacted quickly when it learned of the terrible conditions in the village of La Calichera, just across the border from McAllen, Texas. La Calichera was built by workers employed by American factories in the region. Wages are low and residents cannot afford housing; homes are built from scraps - shipping pallets become fences, barrels become bathtubs. And educational facilities are primitive for the approximately 300 children who live there. As always, in an impoverished environment, it’s the children who suffer most, learning survival skills at an early age. The parents of La Calichera want something better for their children. They embrace the idea of education, seeing it as the road out of poverty. COCI is supporting their efforts by helping them to develop and supply elementary and middle school class rooms. Also, a garden is being planted at the school to provide healthy food choices for the children, and to teach the children how to grow their own food. COCI is honored to be making such a difference in the lives of these children.
