Corazon del Pastor (The Shepherd’s Heart), located in the city of Cochabamba, Bolivia, is currently home to 24 girls. Here these children live in a family setting with a team of 5 of loving “tias” (aunts) and psychologist.
The home was founded in December 2004 by Swedish volunteer, Annika Hermansson, and since early 2006 has been run by our Bolivian partner, Niños con Valor.
Seen as a ministry, this home is run on principles that recognize the value of each individual child in God’s eyes. We work hard to find adoptive families for the girls where possible (our first two sisters were adopted in January 2007), and for those who remain with us our goal is to create the most loving and family-like atmosphere possible for them to grow up in. We work regularly with relatives of the children where they exists, in hopes of restoring relationships where possible.
In addition to the important work of providing psychological guidance and social support, we work with each girl to develop a life plan. This plan is much more than a “what do you want to do when you grow up” sort of thing. Our desire is to help the girls understand who they want to be. We seek out opportunities for growth in each girl, challenging them to broaden their perspective and develop their creativity. Thus, we encourage participation in the arts, take them on outings to discover more about their country and culture, and offer them the opportunity to learn things like English and computer skills. In the end, all that we invest in our girls is not only in order to provide them with additional tools for success in the future; these things also help form character, which is the base of all solid parenting.
As this home is a life-long commitment to these children, we seek partnerships with individuals, small groups, churches and other organizations to meet the monthly needs of the home.
Starting in 2012, the Bolivian Children Foundation began to provide scholarships for the girls of CDP. These scholarships go towards covering the costs of each child’s living expenses. You can participate in our scholarship programs through one-time or regular giving, or by becoming a child sponsor.
If you would be interested in getting involved, either as a volunteer, by sending a team, or through financial gifts, please use the “get involved” link above to learn how, and be sure to indicate “CDP” with your correspondence.
Thank you for your prayers and support!
