Children's Shelter of Hope Foundation

Hope Foundations primary purpose is to support the needs of children and families living in the Bay of Banderas (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico) area through direct cash grants and donations of needed equipment or items.

Children's Shelter of Hope Foundation has two main programs, Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza (RISE) and Pasitos de Luz - Points of Light. It is a U.S. non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, which accepts tax-deductible donations.

Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza (RISE) - is a non-profit shelter for babies and children under the age of 15 who have been turned over by DIF, a Mexican government social services organization that protects the rights of children. Some of these beautiful children come from unbearable situations having been abused, neglected, or simply abandoned. Some have been transferred from other facilities because of overcrowding, and many have been in institutions for most of their young lives. The Foundation's highest priority at this time is to provide monthly support to cover basic needs and expenses at the Refugio. This includes such things as food, medicine, diapers, electricity, water, internet and TV cable connections, and salaries for the nine Refugio staff members.

Pasitos de Luz - Points of Light - At no charge to families, Pasitos de Luz is committed to support children with severe disabilities. Pasitos provides these children with a caring and loving environment, along with treatment for individual rehabilitation, nutritional meals, physical stimulation and therapy. Also provided are regular evaluations from medical specialists, including occupational and speech therapists; as well as providing free orthopedic equipment. In addition, PDL provides moral and emotional support to the families of these children and maintains a high standard of hygiene in an environment where each child can be healthy and happy.

Beyond seeking funds and donations for basic needs and projects identified by their Board of Directors, this corporation is concerned with potential future needs such as funding for:

• Medical and dental check-ups and emergencies;
• Specialized medical treatment;
• Improved hygiene;
• Educational needs including but not limited to: classrooms; equipment including computers; and hiring trained personnel and tutors to assist with homework, computer skills and/or English instruction;
• Future building expansions;
• Placement of teenagers in safe environments;
• Scholarships to support children with tuition, transportation and associated costs to attend schools that will provide for a better future - such as a private school, secondary and preparatory schools, trade schools or vocational training.

Please visit Hope's website for more information on the great work they do including details on how you can volunteer or make tax free donations, any help or support you can give is always very much appreciated.