First Day at Pan y Amor

Our journey began early yesterday morning in Miami as all 27 of us began to check into the airplane with a total of 30 duffle bags containing over 1500 pounds of shoes, clothes, and school supplies. On arrival, we checked into our hotel and then began a team-based workshop where we were given a scenario and had to work together as a team to find a solution. This group project was lead by Mr. Eric Brenner, and was a great ice-breaker for those who weren't familiar with some of the newer faces on the trip. This activity proved how crucial teamwork is in any situation. End of day one.

Today, we embarked on a 20 minute bus ride to "El Colegio Pan y Amor". The school is located in the heart of the largest market in Central America, and is a shelter for the children of working families who need a place to stay out of trouble. Pan y Amor offers these children a quality education centered around their faith and future. The children are provided with breakfast and lunch and are given the care, protection, and education they need to be successful in the years ahead. We were so eager to see the children, as well as the teachers. We worked on calligraphy, Spanish, and math with a younger group of students during the morning. After lunch, we began arts & crafts, such as painting and making silly putty. Another group of Little Pencils broke off with the soccer coach to play soccer with the children. Here's what Kelly Rico had to say about the day: "I thought that today went very well and it was amazing to see the children after an entire year and the amount they've changed and how much they have learned. Being with the children once again was a great feeling and I look forward to the rest of the week."

Tomorrow we look forward to creating murals and renovating their play area, along with visiting the burn victim unit, Aproquen. 

Thank you for all your prayers and support. 

Yours truly, 

Little Pencils (Ian & Ilse)