This year began full of promise and anticipation. We were expecting more than 400 short-term missionaries to walk through our community this year until the arrival of COVID-19 changed everything. Under the leadership of our Board of Directors, we moved quickly to reduce program expenses and increase our fundraising. Our collective goal was clear: remain operational so that our ministry and all of our year-round programs in the DR could continue. Our staff worked from home uncertain about the post-pandemic future, but also certain in our purpose of continuing to share the love of Jesus to those who were facing monumental challenges: sickness, loss of life, unemployment, hunger, and loneliness.
Through it all, God remained faithful. Our programs adapted, our staff continued to serve diligently, and our gospel ministry continues. All of this would not have been possible without your generosity. Partner donors, churches, and schools reached out and prayed for our ministry even during their own chaotic time. Our child sponsors helped support families who had lost jobs with donations and gifts.
We enter 2021 eager to have short-term missionaries with us again. However, uncertainties remain around COVID-19 and international travel. We remain hopeful that we will soon see a thriving community of Dominicans, Haitians, and US teams of all ages working together in our beloved Cielo.
Thank you for your continued support of our ministry,
Jim Sweeney
Executive Director
