Medical care, food, and classes for mothers in Costa Rica
Samaritan’s Purse supports a home for young mothers and their children in Costa Rica, Central America, providing medical care, food, and classes to help them become independent.
Anita* was facing a dire situation.
"I could not go back to my (abusive) family," she noted. But on
the other hand, she was no longer permitted to live at a Costa
Rica, Central America women's shelter where she had spent four
years.
"I had nowhere to go."
At 18, Anita was still struggling with emotional issues that
stemmed from a childhood of abuse. Bouts of anxiety and depression
made it difficult to give her three-year-old son proper care,
but she could not rely on her family for support.
Anita heard about a special program for young mothers that is
supported by Samaritan's Purse, and came seeking medical care for
her son. He had serious health conditions, including stomach
ulcers, celiac disease, and severe anemia.
The program, funded by your generous gifts, was able to provide
medical treatment and food, along with special classes.
"In less than a year, his health improved so much," said
Anita. "The preschool teacher gave him lots of attention and he has
overcome most of his motor limitations, as well."
At the same time, Anita received treatment for her emotional
trauma. A psychologist provided counseling to help her overcome
deep depression and increase her self-esteem.
"I learned to take care of myself, and properly love and educate
my child," she said.
Anita also came to know Christ as her personal savior.
"[My faith] has helped me a lot," she said. "Some of the
professionals from the other shelter came [here] and were amazed to
see the big change in my personality, because I am now a joyful
person."
Around the world, this program is one of several projects funded
by Samaritan's Purse, and your donations, that provides physical,
emotional, and spiritual support for women and their children. In
Costa Rica, Central America, this program supplies a home for young
mothers at a high social risk while contributing resources and
assistance to help them become independent.
Over the course of several months, Anita was given the
opportunity to move into a semi-independent living program. She and
her son now live in a private apartment and Anita has learned how
to manage her money. She also gained work experience as part of the
kindergarten staff.
"Because of all the support I received, today I can say I'm a
more confident person," said Anita. "Now, I feel safe to start a
new, independent life."
(*name changed for security)
Ways you can help
Pray
Please pray that God will restore hope and dignity to hurting women around the world, and that He will provide abundant resources, effective partnerships, and meaningful opportunities to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Give
Help ensure women, like Anita, receive the physical, emotional and spiritual support they need to turn their lives around. Your gift of $50 will help stop the cycle of abuse and poverty for women around the world. Donate Here
.