Hello Everyone from Joanie

Today a small group of us spent the day at the Kings Home for Children where approximately 45-50 children live. These children, through no fault of their own and for various reasons, have no family able to care for them and so, have been taken in by the Home. They range in age from infants to young adults. Leoni, the founder and director, was not there for much of the day, but her sister, Fay, oversaw the activities and goings-on in her absence. Anne and Ashley provided much needed help with the laundry. The children are on Spring Break this week and are at the Home all day since school is out. And yes, as Anne learned, Belizian teens change their clothes up to 4 times/day just like American teens! Jane and I helped in the kitchen; cleaning tables, sweeping, mopping, drying dishes, and helping make banana bread. But of course, in addition to knowing that we were helping with the chores and daily needs of the Home, most enriching was meeting and talking with the people. We were fortunate to be able to listen to Fay as she spoke about the Home, it’s purpose, their hopes for the children, their needs, and frustrations. Her dedication to the children is amazing. We spent time with Clement, a 16 year (if I remember correctly) volunteer who helps prepare every meal – in addition to his regular job outside the Home. Anne and Ashley spent much time talking with the wonderful ladies doing the laundry. And these are just a few of the many people who help. And of course, the children – Nathan (who looked about 2), LaQuisha (5), Josiah (7), Zarah (maybe 7?), Ezekial (10), Gladys (14), and a 20 year old blind, schizophrenic girl (whose name I don’t remember right now) who was led around the Home as needed by the younger children. There are so many more I met, but only briefly for now. I was struck by the sense of community and family within the Home – a toddler would cry and a 6 year old would comfort him. They live together as a team – helping each other, playing with each other, fussing with each other. I enjoyed so much getting to know them even in the short time we had today – some shy, some very outgoing and engaging. They enjoyed talking with me about the Superman movie they were watching and others enjoyed sitting in our laps being read to. And I keep thinking how grateful I am that this Home exists and that these children of God are cared for, provided for, and are given love, structure, discipline, friendship, and attention. We’re looking forward to seeing them again tomorrow!!
Joanie Scheuer
(Oh – I’ve just been given word that Eric walked in with a cat-eyed snake wrapped around his arm!)