Charlie 18, Jasmine 17 and Fernando 16, in the photos above show how long we have known them. You will remember this family, as we have shared about them over the years. We first met when they would come to our Tuesday night outreach. Soon after we met, their older sister became ill and suddenly died. Our mercy medical fund, “Karen Fund”, is named after her. Three years ago this month, their father Carlos was killed in a robbery at his work place. Yet another heavy blow to the family. With your help, VOB has since supported the family monthly, to make up the sudden loss of their father’s income.

Our main goal was to keep the boys in school, as the oldest was considering going to work full time. Unfortunately, both boys dropped out of school recently. Charlie just became uninterested, and Fernando got in trouble, fighting a lot. Charlie recently has got into some trouble. We are hoping this will help him get back on track. These are common problems with young men in Tijuana, as they grow bored, lacking encouragement to rise above their circumstances. With their dad gone, that became all the more difficult. I see them every week, and try to encourage them to make better choices. They know I love them, and they respond respectfully, but still lack initiative. I hope to get them to reconsider school. Please pray for them. We love them dearly!  Their sister, Jasmine, also was greatly impacted by the loss of her father. But  inspired by the tragedy, she desires to be a criminologist. She graduates high school in July, and plans to go on to college for a degree. She needs our help, and we surely plan to give it. Would you help us sponsor her each month?  We know roughly, how much money it will take every month, and it’s not as much as one might think.

Antonio is a success story who we prayed for, and one who gives us hope for Carlos and Fernando!  A few years ago, Antonio did not make the lottery to continue public school. We sponsored him each month, to attend private school. He lost interest and, against advice, dropped out, to go to work. He said he might return one day. Three years later, at age 19, he has returned to high school, not only paying for it himself, but will be graduating next month!

Yay God!

 

This months highlight, was officiating our nieces wedding! What a blessing to be with our family, celebrating such a special occasion. Leading the ceremony was one of my greatest honors. Brooklyn and Corey, may you be blessed with many years together, as you continue your own family roots in the Lord!