Photo gallery: Building hope In Costa Rica

March 12, 2015 • Central America

Samaritan's Purse is partnering with Calgary and Edmonton Police Services to bring hope to children in Costa Rica

Group shot of officers — The police officers are installing the playground in a Costa Rican neighborhood where youth are at risk for gang involvement. All of the officers are volunteering their time for the trip.

Playground equipment — The playground was donated to Samaritan’s Purse by Kids Around the World. Samaritan’s Purse shipped the playground to Costa Rica late last month.

Officers working together — Calgary and Edmonton police officers work alongside Costa Rican police officers.

Erecting playground equipment — The team works together to get the base for the playground in the right location.

Boys observes the work — Boys, just like this one, will be able to enjoy a safe play environment.

Costa Rican children — “Our children are not our future. Our children are our present. We must provide safe places for them to play and grow”—The First Lady of Costa Rica

Canadian officer with Costa Rican children — A Canadian police officer interacts with Costa Rican children.

Child awaits the finished project — This beautiful little girl was getting familiar with the playground equipment on our installation day one. In just two days she’ll be able to enjoy the fun anytime!

Operation Christmas Child Please donate $12 for every shoebox you prepare. Your donations will help cover project costs, including shipping (make one combined donation for multiple shoeboxes). Consider making an additional donation to help Samaritan's Purse go beyond the shoebox and expand assistance to children, their families, and their communities. Samaritan's Purse does not provide receipts for the value of gift items included in a shoebox.