Changing the Lives of Children Half a World Away
Six-year-old María “Gisela” is an energetic little girl with a beautiful smile. Her face emanates the love that she has for life and for those around her. Gisela is always one of the first to greet the Santa Lucia volunteers at the door with a big hug, excited for the chance to tackle the activities they’ve brought for the day.
Gisela came to The Santa Lucía Children’s Home with her younger sister, Janeth, in November 2007. Over the last two years, Gisela has adjusted well to the transition. She is learning how to open up and share her emotions. The nuns are quick to point out that Gisela is a wonderful sister to Janeth as well as to the younger children who live at the orphanage. When asked if she considers herself a good big sister, she said, “Yes, because I hold [Janeth’s] hand so that she doesn’t fall.” With that explanation, we think so too!
A few months ago, Gisela started kindergarten and she loves it. Her favorite subject is art, because she enjoys painting and drawing. She also likes to learn English and works on pronouncing new words everyday. She doesn’t mind doing her homework, especially when it involves working with numbers. Fortunately, Gisela has the orphanage’s house mother, Anita, whom she calls her hero, to help her with her homework whenever she needs a little guidance.
Aside from reading and arithmetic, Gisela also loves to be active. One of her favorite activities is to play outside with the other children and volunteers at Santa Lucía. Most likely, you’ll find her on the slides or swings at the home’s playground or on the soccer field with the other children.
Anita is grateful that Gisela is a wonderful helper in the home. She doesn’t have to ask twice for Gisela to sweep the floor or wash the clothes. What’s more, she’ll spend hours taking care of the smaller children to ensure they’re comfortable and happy.
Gisela says her favorite part about living at Santa Lucía is, “they feed me and help me grow.” She is especially excited when Anita makes her favorite food, noodle soup.
When asked what she wants to be when she grows up, Gisela has a couple ideas –being a good sister and eventually becoming a Santa Lucía volunteer. This way, she can help other children at Santa Lucía just like she’s been helped.
Gisela’s story is just one of the many at The Santa Lucia Children’s Home. Her life has been touched for the better in meaningful ways thanks to generous donations from people like you.
The Melaleuca Foundation invites you to support the children at The Santa Lucia Children’s Home by making a small monthly donation. Every little bit helps. Please join us in supporting these children by visiting www.melaleuca.org or by calling 1-800-282-3000.
