News and Progress Report

In 2002, the United Church of God in El Salvador received $2,000 for school supplies, donated by churches in Ocala and Tampa, Florida to LifeNets International, Inc. Roberto and Barbara Parada bought school supplies and books and/or helped with registration fees for 85 children who needed financial assistance. This year, one couple in Tampa, Florida generously donated $1,000 to Close to You, Inc. to continue this project. As of the end of January, 2003, 34 children have received school supplies and books, and 4 children have received money for registration fees for public school. Many children will continue to be helped in February.

Rafael Flores with his notebooks. Rafael is from a poor area on a volcano, and at the age of 23, is in the 10th grade after going back to school in 2002 with the help of a scholarship from the church and school supplies from this project. He works during the day and attends school at night. When not in school, he helps with the family farm.

Marcela and Maria José Ramírez are two sisters who have received supplies. Marcela is in the 9th grade and Maria attends Preparatoria, which is a class before 1st grade.


Francisco Márquez shows off his new backpack and gets a hug from his friend Vicki Munguia.