Throughout its 6 years history, Metro Kidz Peru and the Community Groups have touched and continue to touch thousands of lives in the shanty towns in and around Lima. Take a look at the current Metro Kidz Peru sites as well as those who were impacted in the past:
Past Sites:
Juan Pablo II (Los Olivos):
Metro Kidz Peru has been impacting lives in Juan Pablo II since 2004. Located in the district of Los Olivos, Juan Pablo II is an area populated by women and children searching for something more out of life. They are searching for hope. As Metro Kidz Peru continues to work in this area, lives are being changed. Children are learning and putting into practice the lessons of Biblical morals and values and the mothers have started to organize Community Groups on their own. It is great to see the change in this small community.
Bolognesi (El Callao):
This shantytown may be built on ocean-front property, but it is not even close to upscale. Situated right next to a fish processing plant, Bolognesi has a stench that parallel’s the area problems. Plagued with abuse, alcoholism, and drug addiction, this site is slowly but surely being changed by the love the Metro Kidz Peru continues to share. Children who used to greet the MK crew with rude comments or with hitting (because that’s all they learned in their home life) now show up early and are the ones to help set up the sound equipment. The change in Bolognesi is amazing, and we look forward to seeing what God will continue to do through MK in this coming year.
Zapallal:
Lima knows Zapallal for its sandy hills, but those living in Zapallal know it for its high level of physical and sexual abuse. This area’s Metro Kidz Peru program continues to grow weekly, teaching the children that they can have hope in Christ and that they are important. The mothers’ Community Groups continue to grow and leaders have risen up and now leading the groups on a regular basis.
Oasis (Villa el Salvador):
Metro Kidz’s newest site, the area of Oasis, located in the large district of Villa el Salvador is an area full of need. With houses made of plywood and old planks, this area’s physical needs do not compare to their spiritual needs. Metro Kidz began working in this area in August 2005.
Los Rosales (Los Olivos):
Metro Kidz Peru worked in Los Rosales for over three years. After seeing the community grow, placing a mechanical cow in the community center, seeing electricity and sewage installed, and seeing the children and mothers grow in their relationship with Christ, Metro Kidz knew it was time to move on and share the love of Christ in other areas.
El Paraiso (San Juan de Lurigancho):
This site located in the middle of a cemetery was positively influenced by Metro Kidz Peru for over three years. The children who used to fear everything (because of the abuse in their homes) began to recognize their liberty in Christ. It was great to see MK’s impact in this community!
Bocanegra (El Callao):
When MK first started working in Bocanegra the streets were made of dirt, the street corners were covered with youth selling and buying drugs, and the families were broken and without hope. After years of lessons and love, the community rose up and made a change – the streets were paved, the youth were reached instead of condemned, and the families learned that there is hope. MK and the Community Groups truly made a difference!
