I just returned from a missions trip with my school to Costa Rica, and it was shocking to say the least. I'm not one who cries a lot, but sitting here and looking at all the pictures we took at the orphanage is causing me to just weep. I feel for these kids, and just thought I'd share my trip story with everyone here. These charities aren't for show - the situations these people live in are real and they need our help now more than ever.

 

My friend Charlie and I with the kids.

 

My friend Heather saying goodbye.

 

My friend Josh playing with one of the younger boys, Josel.

 

My friend Jonathan (yes, he's older) swinging one of the kids around. That's me in the background with the Ronaldinho jersey.

 

Walking the streets of San Jose.

 

 

 

I don't know - maybe those pictures didn't do a lot for you. But these kids are so full of joy and life despite their situations. If anyone here wants information on how to get in contact with the orphanage I can help. I guess all I'm really asking for is an open ear.

 

If Costa Rica, which is actually one of the least poor countries when compared to African countries, is faced with these conditions... imagine how much worse off they are in Africa. Whether you pray, spread the word, or donate - at least give your support. This is a plea coming straight from me.

Ohh.. look at those kids, they're precious! And check out the pout Josel's sporting! Hehe.. so cute. Thanks so much for sharing here.. you should tell us more about the conditions over there, if you can. And I'd be interested in information regarding the orphanage.. as I'm sure others are, is there a link we can visit?

I'm working on the link right now... I'm trying to get in touch with my missions trip leader to see if he has the link to a website or something.

 

Costa Ricans live in conditions that just astounded me. Every house has a set of outer bars (like a fence), then bars covering all the windows and doors because crime is so bad. The streets are quite impressive to drive on... they are torn apart and have potholes and dips and sometimes the roads just switch from pavement to broken up gravel to pavement again. The houses were all very dirty. It was so sad to walk inside one house and see a baby crawling around on the floor playing with her dirty toys.

 

Then we went to one particular village in Costa Rica... and it was unbelievable. It was the kind of third-world villages you see where all the "huts" are built out of nothing but tin sheets, nails, and trash. We passed out food there, and people just flocked out. They were so greatful for three sandwiches and a juice pack... something that I'm sure all of us take for granted.

 

And the sad part about it is that Costa Rica is such a beautiful country. You will never see another sunset like you do in Costa Rica, I can guarantee you that much. The one beach we went to had white sand and the ocean looked amazing. I just wish it wasn't such a poor country.

I liked your pics and info... can't imagine what it is really like in Africa that is so much worse. Good for you, helping those in need! :)

That's great of you to help these kids! It's wonderful that you care about these things and want to help spread the word. Many people today, as you said, take a juicebox for granted and I makes me think that we are fortunate and we must do something to help those who may need some assistance. I wish our school would organize this cos I'd be eager to go. (:

Thanks for sharing that with us Will. I kinda know what you mean.. I see a lot of similar poverty when I go the Dominican Republic, where I was born and it can really get to you sometimes.

 

Anyway.. don't forget to post a link if one's available! :smiley: