May this letter find you and your families healthy and well during this time of the Covid-19
Global Pandemic. In just a few months, the world has been turned upside down. Yet in a time
when fear and uncertainty have the power to overtake us, we must remember that God has the
power to lead us. With God, all is possible. This is the message we share with our children and
vulnerable, He was with us before and He is here now.
These changes have allowed for us to come together as a community and become
spiritually united in our new virtual world. Like all missionaries and with the inspiration
of Fr. Joe Walijewski, we find ways to pivot to fulfill our mission. However, the changes have
not put a hold on our essential functions at Casa Hogar of delivering care, protection, love
and faith to the 72 children and families who call Casa home which we cannot do without
all of you. For those who are able to continue to support our mission, now is the time.
In Mid-March, the country went into a complete state of lockdown and the Family Teachers
at Casa Hogar have been on working nonstop to ensure all children stay healthy, active
and educationally engaged (including our new family!). With limited access to technology
equipment, we are facing challenges to keep up with academic needs. The government has
mandated that all schooling remain virtual through the end of the year, which is December for
us here in Peru. Some children had one week of classes while others had not yet started their
new year. Additional funding will allow us to increase the number of computers for virtual
classes, books and two larger printers for daily required worksheets. We also have 16 new,
smiling and beautiful faces in need of Padrinos (Sponsors)!
The community strength and influence of Fr. Joe Walijewski that lives within Casa Hogar
is now more important than ever. As the world continues to emphasize social distancing
for safety and protection of all those working hard to keep us safe, we must remember that
it is physically distancing but we remain socially near. Socially impactful. During the last
month, we have distributed 55 bags of powdered milk from Project Milk to the local area
homes and parishes. Rosaries with messages of gratitude from the children continue to be
given to public safety and health officials. There are also new virtual communities for the
Graduates of Casa Hogar and the biological families who need assistance or emotional
support. Every amount of kindness, act of goodwill and generosity goes a long way!
We are so grateful that our Mission was important to you prior to the pandemic and whether
it is today or any other day, know that you make a life changing difference for the children
and families here in Peru—providing faith, family and a future—Thank you!
If you are able to, please consider a gift. Together we can offer faith, family and hope
for the future. Know that you and your families remain in our daily prayers.
May God Bless You,
Msgr. Joseph Hirsch
Director, Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II
PS: To learn more about our new family and how Casa Hogar is doing their part,
please visit: https://frjoesguild.org.