Build Development Center for 300 Colombian Kids

Hola friends,

Many thanks for supporting our project here in Medellin.

Today, we would like to tell you a story about Maria Cenedes. She has been displaced by violence, she is a mother and, finally, she is one of the female construction workers building the Development Center in Llanaditas, Medellín.

Her story in our community started 20 years ago, when in her early 20s she moved to Medellin from Uruba. Maria and her family were obliged to leave Uruba, as her brother was assassinated by the paramilitaries. From one day to the next, she had to run away and find a new place to stay. At that time, Maria was pregnant with her first child and she was a single mother. Maria was struggling to raise her child and provide for him while working hard to give him a happy childhood.

Right now, in front of me I see a woman who has learned many things from life, she works hard, she studies and she has been a mother for the second time. Maria’s eyes are shining as she explains to me how proud her daughter Deisy Camila (11 years old) is to have her mom building the school she will soon attend.

With a big smile Maria said, “Thanks to this job, I can support my family and my studies.”

When I asked her to explain in two words the new Development Centre in Llanaditas, she said “Excellent and very well equipped”. In fact, the new Development Centre is not just a school; it will also have a psychological team and a center for health focusing on prevention and promotion. In addition, there will be a lunchroom which will provide breakfast, snacks and lunch to every child.

We wish her all the best in reaching her goals. Good Luck, Maria!

At the same time, please continue to support Maria, her family and the other children so that they may have the school they’ve all been dreaming of. Your contribution now will provide education to children for years to come.