Raul was homeless and alone at age eight. Potter’s House has established a network of community leaders who are trained to support and encourage people in the community. It was a community leader that took in Raul and now introduces herself as his Mom. She is a true hero. These situations are common in a community where tragedy is routine and half the families are lead by single mothers.

I worked and played with Raul every day this week and as our last day arrived I knew that I may not see him again. A lot happens in the garbage dump community and there is no guarantee I will return either. Rather than giving a gift I wrote Raul a short note telling him I respect him, that I would pray for him and that he should stay in school and pursue his goals. Although I will work to raise funds to help the community, at this time, all I felt that all I could really do for Raul personally was to encourage and pray for him.

During a mid morning work break I gave him the letter in the presence of his Mom. Raul was excited to receive and read the letter aloud. Being a tough kid, he was a little embarrassed when he cried and hugged his Mom afterward. I told him I cry all the time and we moved ahead with our day.