Changing Lives in Chaclacayo: A Heartwarming Experience Volunteering with Villa la Paz in a small town in Peru
Peru, a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm-hearted people, is a place that has always held a special place in my heart. My recent trip to Chaclacayo, a small town nestled in the Andean foothills, was not just a travel adventure but a life-altering experience. During my stay in this serene haven, I had the privilege of volunteering with Villa La Paz Foundation at “El Hogar,” a home for sick and destitute children. In this blog post, I’ll take you on a journey through my heartwarming experiences with these remarkable children who have touched my life in ways I could never have imagined.
El Hogar San Francisco de Asis, Villa la Paz Foundation: A Sanctuary of Hope
El Hogar, located just a short drive from Lima, is a haven for children who come from some of the most challenging backgrounds, many of whom hail from the foothills of the Andes. This non-profit organization is run by Dr. Anthony Lazzara, who is dedicated to providing care, education, and a loving environment for these vulnerable children, who have experienced unimaginable hardships. More information about him can be found here: https://www.tampabay.com/news/health/2020/03/20/a-tampa-doctor-runs-a-home-for-sick-children-in-peru-now-he-cant-reach-them/
The Children of El Hogar
The first thing that struck me upon entering El Hogar was the radiant smiles of the children. Their resilience and joy were truly inspiring. Most of them have experienced poverty, neglect, and in some cases, severe health issues. Yet, you would never guess their difficult pasts from their vibrant spirits. They were full of life and eager to embrace every opportunity.
Connecting with the Children
My experience at El Hogar was a rollercoaster of emotions. I had the privilege of interacting with children of various ages and backgrounds. Each had their own story to tell, but what bound them all was their sheer determination to overcome adversity. We spent our days playing games, painting, singing, and learning from each other. It was heartening to see how much they cherished the simple joys of life.
One particular memory that will forever remain etched in my heart is of a baby girl named Maribella. She was 1 year old who suffered from epilepsy, which landed her in El Hogar. One day, I had to go with one of the mamitas, to Lima so Maribella could be evaluated by the neurologist. I help this baby in my arms for 12 hours. This included a 3 hour bus ride to Lima, several hours in the hospital, then the pharmacy, a brief stop at an open air market for food and finally the two hour journey back. Connecting with her that day has been something that has resonated with me for several years.
Education and Opportunities
El Hogar is not just a place of refuge but also a center of learning and development. The children receive education tailored to their individual needs and interests. They are encouraged to explore their talents and ambitions, and the sense of empowerment I witnessed in these children was truly inspiring. It was evident that El Hogar is not just providing shelter; it is nurturing dreams and creating opportunities.
My journey to Chaclacayo, Peru, and my time at El Hogar were transformative. It reinforced my belief in the power of love, resilience, and community. These children, who have come from the foothills of the Andes, have taught me the true meaning of strength and hope.
El Hogar is a beacon of light, not just for the children it serves but for anyone fortunate enough to be part of their journey. The kids at El Hogar, with their radiant smiles and boundless spirit, have forever left an indelible mark on my heart. This experience is a testament to the extraordinary capacity of the human spirit to thrive, regardless of the challenges it faces. Peru’s natural beauty is captivating, but it’s the warmth and strength of its people, especially the children of El Hogar, that have truly stolen my heart.
If you feel called, please consider helping by donating or volunteering. You won’t be disappointed.