"And whoever receives one child such as this in My name receives Me." (Matthew 18:5)

The girls looked angelic in their flowing white First Communion dresses — precious gifts donated by friends in the U.S. For months they had anticipated and prepared for this special day. It was a solemn and joyous occasion they will always cherish.

Seeing these girls’ radiant smiles, one would not easily guess that they had suffered much in their young lives. Some had been orphaned; others were abandoned by their parents. But the girls now live in a home in Nicaragua that receives support from Food For The Poor. Sister Nora Cruz, who is in charge of the home, beamed with joy as the girls lined up to receive their First Communion.

Gifts from generous people like you make milestones like this possible, in addition to sustaining the day-to-day operation of boys and girls homes throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Children who once faced abuse, neglect and other horrific conditions are now being cared for in safe, loving and nurturing environments.

Your support helps provide children with food, clothing, medicine, school supplies and other necessities; but it also brings smiles to children and the assurance that they are cared for and loved. May God bless you for reaching out in compassion to precious young ones in need.