Merry Christmas!
There’s a lot to cover that I will write about at another time. For now, I want to give a brief update of the fundraiser for the Christmas programs. I hope to include more details of the fundraiser and programs when I get another opportunity.
UPDATE 12/27/2019
I have only a short opportunity with good internet access until early January, so this is the quick update.
We donated $200 to the Christmas program in Chontal and $100 to the Christmas program in Magdelana, the next village over. All went very well. Because of some later donations, I still have an extra $250 believe it or not, and so I'm in the process of finding a good use for that money. That may take a little time, as using donated money is a delicate activity that needs careful consideration of the effects on community and relationships, which are the end goal! I'll have more updates later when I start to get ideas.
Because of my internet limits, I can share links to collections of photos and videos. Here are some:
(1) me handing over the money to the queen of Magdalena, Abigail Reascos (who is responsible with the local leaders for organizing the Christmas program). This went to purchasing about 100 Christmas bags of candies for the kids and seniors. You can see the queen take off on the motorbike afterwards. :) Click here for photos/videos
(2) me handing over the $200 to the queen of Chontal, Kely Bosmediano. Her mother Ines is one of the church leaders. Click here for photos/videos
(3) the Christmas bags and the toys and prizes that were bought with the money the next day in Quito. Click here for photos/videos
(4) pictures and videos from the Chontal Christmas program. You might see me in those! You might also recognize Santa. Click here for photos/videos
Thank you again for sharing in this experience with me. I hope the photos and videos give you a sense of joining with me and being a part of the celebration and activities. Drop me a note anytime, I'll respond as I can. Many best Christmas season wishes, and a Happy new Year!
