March 2012

One recipient of Serving Hands International’s portable program, Orchestra of Baja California, proudly photographed their portable in action on March 29, 2012. Orchestra of Baja California is a non-profit that serves youth from low income families in Tijuana, Mexico. Their program educates students on the construction of instruments as well music lessons. “Before SHI’s portabe building, we had little space for our instrument construction, and it was difficult,” said Lupe a student of OBC to Serving Hands International’s Field Officer, Joaquin Hernandez. “But now, we have space to make beautiful instruments to play!” We at Serving Hands International are pleased to see yet another donated portable being well used.

Serving Hands International is pleased to announce its partnership with Sister Ana Rodriguez of the Missionaries of the Blessed Sacrament in a new region of the world! Sister Ana was sent to Intramuros Manila, Philippines during the advent season by her Mother Superior. Her previous post, an outlying community of Tijuana, Mexico was a successful venture to provide a community with a place of refuge, support, spiritual guidance and education. Sister Ana’s resilience was blessed and the ministry thrived under her care for more than 10 years.

Sister Ana lives out Serving Hands International mission “To aid the poorest people in the world and strive to restore in them self-sufficiency, dignity and hope by providing food, clothing, shelter, medical assistance, educational opportunities and spiritual guidance.” By providing support of her efforts, Serving Hands is given the opportunity to impact the people of Manila, Philippines.

On Thursday, March 22, 2012 Serving Hands International awarded Sister Ana with support to begin lifesaving interventions in the destitute villages of Intramuros Manila, Philippines. As time progresses Serving Hands International looks forward to sharing with our readers our latest frontier.

Carita de Dios, a Center for children with special needs, received its first Serving Hands International portable building on February 1, 2012. Director Adalid Murgia Ortiz shared her passion for children with special needs with Serving Hands International’s Field Officer, Joaquin Hernandez. As a parent of a special needs child, she became painfully aware of the lack of help in her community for kids and families with special needs. In 2002 she began volunteering and working with other children with disabilities. After 5 years she was convinced this demographic was underserved in Tijuana. She was certain that the gift of her son, Genero had provided her the experience and skills to serve the special needs children in her community. Adalid founded Carita de Dios, A.C. in 2007 as a first step in reaching the special needs community. To date she and her staff serve over 50 children with disabilities that range from mild to severe. Carita de Dios offers day programs that are educational and theraputic in naturefor children with special needs. They also offer educational courses for family members who wish to know more. “My son and these children,” said Adalid, “have made me lookat the world in a different way!” As of March 12, 2012 Carita de Dios has recieved 4 Serving Hands International portable buildings.

A local San Diegan, Sue of La Mesa California works hard each year creating beautiful and warm afghans for women in need in Tijuana. She has trusted Serving Hands International for years to safely deliver her gifts into the hands of those with the most need. This winter season she has continued the ritual and donated 50 afghans. Sue’s most recent delivery is in the hands of appreciative recipients in Tijuana as of February 24, 2012. Thank you, Sue for having two willing hands to serve others with.