GRACE IN AN ACTION

One of the biggest problems Mexico faces is a lack of social programs. Unlike in the U.S., Mexico does not have foster care or welfare system, so children in need rely on a network of private orphanages funded by donations. MissionGathering San Diego has partnered with Corazon de Vida (CDV) to serve one of these orphanages, Los Angelitos.

In our trips to this orphanage just south of the border, we seek to use our hearts and our hands to bring a little joy and change into the lives of the children there. We throw birthday parties, do arts & crafts, and help with household repairs as needed. We also try to bring some extra love and care into their hearts as we get to know the children, play with them, create with them, teach them something from God, and break bread with them.

SATURDAY DAY TRIPS

Duration: Our time at the orphanage typically ranges from 10:00am to 2:30pm. Our return to the border is generally around 3pm, depending on traffic, and it can take 30-60 minutes to cross the border.

Details: Dates, times, and other details are announced during services and the newsletters. Get ready because your life is about to be changed!

Checklist For The Day Trip 1. US Citizens must bring a valid Passport 2. SENTRI Card (if available) 3. Appropriate clothing for yourself (for playing sports, doing crafts, painting, or other household repairs). 4. Personal toiletries or medications that you may need during the day. 5. Some cash for possible needs (US Dollars or MX Pesos)

MEET & DEPARTURE Parking At The Border And Carpooling Carpooling is encouraged (and required for anyone’s first trip). Meeting Location: Starbucks at 2325 Roll Dr., San Diego Ca 92154 (near the Otay Mesa border) Meeting Time: Meet at 9am, depart by 9:30am *If you want to carpool to the orphanage from a different meeting location, please notify Frank Renteria for arrangements in advance. Parking: Plaza Parking Lot at 2489 Roll Drive ($18 for the day) Mexican Car Insurance U.S. insurance providers may not cover your vehicle in Mexico, so if you plan on driving to the orphanage, check your policy first. In any care, you are encouraged to purchase Mexican car insurance for the day. https://www.baja-mex.com/buy-insurance/index.htm

TAKING SUPPLIES (add if space permits)

You can bring limited amounts of supplies to the orphanage. These are the items most needed: Toilet paper & paper towels; cleansers & Pine Sol type cleaners; dish soap & Windex; liquid laundry detergent; kitchen sponges & dish rags; heavy duty mops & brooms; shampoo & conditioner; feminine products; girl’s hair bands & ribbons; deodorant & sunblock SPF 30; shaving razors & shaving cream; new underwear & socks (all sizes); pull-up diapers; granola bars; sugar; boxed juices & powdered drink mix; Tupperware & ZIPLOC Bags (Quart & Gallon size), COSTCO & SMART & FINAL Gift Cards. Please, no toys, used clothing, used shoes, or candy.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Frank Renteria, Lead Volunteer (FLRenteria@yahoo.com or 619-550-6064).

Ready to join us? MissionGathering thanks you for giving your time, passion, and love to the Corazón de Vida Foundation and the children of Tijuana, Mexico.