Westfalia Orphanage’s newest additions

Westfalia Orphanage in Peru has 2 new additions. Kind of sad how they came to be there but it’s nice to know they now have a home filled with love and 120 new brothers and sisters.

Macarena was about 2 days old when she was abandoned on the streets of San Juan de Lurigancho, one of the poorest suburbs in Lima, Peru. The only possession she had with her was a blanket, shown in the photo above. Police took her to the hospital where the doctor had to estimate her age. The government contacted Westfalia and Macarena is now in their care. She is being looked after by one of the staff who has 3 boys so she is very happy to finally have a girl!

The other newest member to the orphanage is Thiago. Sadly, he was also abandoned, left on a doorstep in another poor and dangerous area. He was estimated to be under a year old. The police said that somebody in the street mentioned the mother was a 16 year old that couldn’t take care of him. Like Macarena, doctors had to guess Thiago’s age.

These 2 new additions bring the total to 5 babies under 18 months of age, all new to Westfalia. This has put an extra strain on resources to come up with formula, nappies, food, clothes, baby bottles, etc. Soon after their arrival I bought clothes, nappies and formula and take up formula, nappies, clothes, etc. whenever I can, but it’s definitely a challenge. We also need to arrange cots/cribs, etc.

Of course the regular  food and clothes requirements of the orphanage still need to be met. With over 120 children there are always pressing needs. We have received some amazing help and, as always, welcome any assistance we can get.

The only government assistance Westfalia receive is a monthly quota of rice which isn’t even enough for the 120+ children so the orphanage relies on donations to care for these kids. If you would like to help out please send a donation or help spread the word by copying this post onto your facebook or twitter.

Thanks for making a difference! 🙂