With Gratitude

The end of 2017 is fast approaching and we’re looking back at the impact we’ve made on the families at Bendicion de Dios in Alotenango. None of our work could be done without our amazing supporters!

The data tell a powerful story.

UTSM is reaching more children, creating more opportunities and developing deeper friendships with folks like you. Last year with your support, the school Bendición de Dios started a 7th/8th grade program for children who completed the sixth grade. This expansion created an environment for advanced learning and opened up a world of different opportunities for these children. Also thanks to you and others, Julio Garcia Gonzalez, the director of Bendición de Dios, was able to purchase land and build a small trade school around the corner from the main building to teach sewing, cooking, carpentry and mechanics. As well, the primary grade students still enjoy healthy snacks and a world-class literacy experience with constant guidance from US bilingual educators.

Moreover, last year UTSM received donations via its website for the first time, obtained matching funds from the Gates Foundation on #GivingTuesday, and saw the modest smile.amazon.com matching funds nearly double from the previous year. And based upon your generosity, we continued to expand our student sponsorships, doubled our donations for family stoves, provided more funds for teacher scholarships, and continued our regular financial backing for the school and other special projects.

As we look to 2018, we ask you to join us in celebrating these successes—made possible through your kind and generous support—and to join us in our continuing effort to build our network of interested folks and finding more ways to contribute.

With deep gratitude,