Unity 4 Orphans’ programs in Panama keep growing, helping vulnerable children keep up in school and complete their education, and giving them a place to belong.
Our partners at Juntos Podemos in Curundu, Panama City have been running a Saturday program for local children for 17 years. Their dedication to kids living in poverty and often with limited adult supervision keeps kids from falling prey to the dangers surrounding the city.
Giving Vulnerable Children in Panama City a Place to Grow and Learn
We partner to provide two essential programs for children in Panama, a Saturday program and an afternoon remedial program during the week. The number of children who regularly attend continues to grow with about 70 kids currently enrolled and 10 adults who are either staff or volunteers.
It’s heavy for us; the hard part is comprehending [their trauma] as normal. That’s why we do what we do and we’re here every day.
–Joel, Chaplain, Juntos Podemos
The devoted team of staff and volunteers provides a place of belonging, something essential to the development and health of the children they serve. One volunteer, a nurse, keeps measurements of the children’s height and weight to track their physical health. She is one of many on the team who is passionate about helping children negatively affected by poverty. Juntos Podemos means “together we can” and that core value runs through all that they do.
Counseling Helps Kids Heal From Trauma and Build Self-Confidence
The children struggle with three areas in particular: dysfunctional families of origin, being raised in a dangerous community, and a lack of ability to express their emotions in a healthy way. The dangerous streets of Curundu expose kids to daily violence, drugs, human trafficking, and prostitution. Many have a lack of parental guidance, putting them at even higher risk. To help them process what they’ve seen and envision brighter futures, three new counselors have begun working with the kids through Healing 4 Change.
We’re praying that the kids keep coming on a regular basis. We hope that the Holy Spirit touches the counselors and the kids so they can connect spiritually and they’ll have a bond. Our counselors are really longing to help them. I fight for this program because of the kids.
–Enrique, Program Director, Juntos Podemos
Sisters Alicia, 12, and Liah, 8, were constantly fighting when they first began attending the Saturday program. Their home life exposed them to substance abuse, violence, and controversial topics. A lack of hygiene and supervision not only alienated them from other kids but also put them in danger. Now the girls have begun to model the good behavior they see at Juntos Podemos. They’re making friends and learning and playing in a safe space. They look forward to Saturdays and the team sees a marked improvement!
U4O’s Holistic Programs Help Children Grow and Thrive
Like Alicia and Liah, many children in Curundu are experiencing the transformation that can happen with consistent discipline and compassionate relationships. Our partners at Juntos Podemos carefully work with the children who struggle to follow rules, knowing they come to catch a glimpse of a better way of living and be encouraged. Transformation takes time and the counselors and program staff are patient and prayerful.
I’m so glad Enrique and his team are there to be role models, show the kids the way of Jesus, and help them imagine something better. Their work is heavy and we’re so happy we can be a small part of the work they’re doing.
–Caitlin Snyder, Executive Director
As the team goes out into the community and word spreads, we hope to welcome more of Curundu’s children into this holistic program. They benefit from all the funds raised that support the great work that’s already being done, and we look forward to increasing both the number of kids and the scope of our programs. Join us in changing the lives of Panamanian children who depend on Juntos Podemos to supplement their education and support their emotional and mental well-being!