We are once again blessed with the confidence of the national Department of Social and Economic Inclusion. We were awarded grants to execute programs for the eradication of child labor and street begging in the two counties in Pichicha Province. Our project in conjunction with the city of Sangolqui was renewed and increased. With these funds we provide social services, professional counseling, after school care, school reinsertion and support, tutoring, daily nutrition, recreation, special field trips and enrichment —all given surrounded by God’s love and teaching of his Word.
This year we serve 240 children in the situation of child labor and 80 persons involved in street begging. We run six centers of attention in two counties. Your giving enables us to have the necessary matching funds to execute these programs that see the lives of real children changed and real problems solved—in real time!
The economy is incredibly bad in Ecuador. We have had an essential food basket distribution every week since the COVID pandemic started. Most families are still not on their feet financially as there were no stimulus checks or unemployment benefits provided during the pandemic.
We’ve also been able to assist several families with a small business loan of $500 in order to rebuild their informal businesses totally wrecked by economic lockdowns. We are fortunate to partner with Manna Project, a U.S. based foundation in Ecuador for this fantastic collaboration project, bringing hope and providing much needed capital.
You’ve probably noticed all the short videos, news clips, and interviews we’ve posted that are being produced in Ecuador. We are very fortunate to have University students doing internships in media production. They have been actively promoting FACES Ministry with featured events that create awareness in the community of the hurt caused by child labor, a custom which in reality exacerbates problems for families in poverty.
FACES enjoyed a visit from the National Labor Secretary, Education Secretary, and the head of the Department of Social and Economic Inclusion. Way to go FACES team! Here’s hoping the message makes it all the way to the top! One of our ideas this year was to provide the women who sell in the market with aprons that declare “My Stand—Free of Child Labor.” They were really pleased!
Many of you have been asking about Alexis, the boy who needed an operation on his legs. Here are photos showing his progress after the operation. God bless you for your forever faithfulness to respond to each and every need we present!
