A Journey to Mercedita: Bringing Light to the Children of Los Patos

This summer, our secretary Erlin María traveled deep into the countryside of Barahona, to a small community called Mercedita (Los Patos - Barahona). There, she was welcomed by twenty children—faces full of quiet strength, some staring into the camera with a seriousness far beyond their years.

Each child received clothing and toys, simple gifts that carried with them the message: You are seen. You are loved. You matter.

For many of these children, life has already placed heavy burdens upon their small shoulders. Their serious expressions remind us of the realities they face each day—poverty, uncertainty, and hardships no child should endure. And yet, within this moment of giving, there was also a spark of hope. A reminder that joy, even when hidden beneath layers of struggle, can still be rekindled with love and care.

We thank Erlin María for carrying out this mission with such faith and dedication, and we are grateful to everyone whose generosity made this trip possible. Together, we continue to walk in the footsteps of Saint Francis, serving the poor and lifting up the most vulnerable.

As we reflect on the children of Mercedita, may we be reminded of Christ’s words:

“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” — Matthew 19:14