It's a Girl

Mark and I are pleased to announce the newest addition to our family. We have decided to sponsor a child through Plan Canada. Her name is Rubiela and I think she is beautiful. She is two years old and lives in Yalaguina, Madriz. Some interesting facts about her family/community: Her father is a street hawker (travels around selling items) and her mother is a housewife. They live in an adobe (brick) house with a metal roof. Their family obtains water from an open community well ONE km away from their home!! Most wells are not hygenic. They share toilet facilities with their neighbors and relatives and the nearest health facility is two hours away.

Mark has always wanted to sponsor a child. I like the fact that we can help a child live a life where her basic needs can be met, including food, water, health care, and an education. I also like the impact this could have on Karter, growing up and exchanging letters with her. I think this is a good life lesson. I was a bit skeptical at first, wondering how much of our donation will really reach her. But, being the accountant that I am, I reviewed their audited financial statements and annual report. Approximately 80% of our contributions go to the children. Oh, and it is a tax write off. Lol. I am such a dorky accountant.

In deciding what child to sponsor, I chose a community where it was needed most. In Madriz, child sexual exploitation among girls is very common and there is a high degree of poverty and malnutrition.

On a person note, I really wanted to sponsor a girl. Just because if Mark and I are not blessed with a girl of our own, we still have Rubiela. I am very excited to start writing her letters and sending her pictures. I want to send pics of our family, the snow, maybe Mark will slip in a picture of the Roughriders. Lol.