This is Alexis, an 8-year-old child on our program from the rural town of El Progreso, Honduras. Alexis is one of the happiest children you could ever hope to meet, despite having lived in severe poverty his entire life. Alexis suffers from a heart condition and other medical challenges, but remains active, cheerful, and inquisitive. His father, a laborer, has all but abandoned Alexis, his mother and four siblings (including a newborn sister). Life is not easy. Fortunately, in 2001 when Alexis was just a year old, a family came into his life as sponsors. Throughout the past 7 years this family has offered their continual support and love through the gift of sponsorship.
Without this support Alexis' wellbeing would have been jeopardized and his future uncertain. The loving care he has received, year after year, has sustained not only Alexis, but his mother and siblings. The following photos represent a journey in the day of the life of this deserving boy.
Eating Breakfast: Alexis lives in a small cinderblock house with his four siblings and mother. There is some source of running water and sanitation, and occasional electricity. Many of the "luxury items" such as the TV are provided by Alexis' sponsor. The cereal he is holding as well as some of the other food items in the kitchen are also provided by his sponsor.
Going to School: Alexis attends a local primary school in El Progreso. The school bus travels on a winding dirt (and often mud) road every day. He is struggling with his schooling right now, but his dream is to be a doctor. He also loves computers. After school he goes to the El Refugio Center to receive homework support and a meal. Children, Incorporated partners with the El Refugio Center, which is where his sponsorship assistance arrives each month.
Brother Time: Alexis enjoys being with his two older brothers, Mario and Oscar, both of whom are also sponsored. They do everything together, including playing with their pet cat AND rats!
Time to Read: A huge component of our sponsorship program is education. Alexis' sponsor has made sure that along with toys, Alexis also has good books to read. At school and at the El Refugio Center, reading skills are being taught to Alexis, who is making steady progress.
Bed Time: After a long day, it is time to go to bed! This bed and mattress were recently provided by Alexis' sponsors; before this he would sleep on the floor. Alexis was especially thrilled with the Batman bed sheets - AND another dream come true: a bike!
To find out more about a child like Alexis, or to sponsor a child, email us at sponsorship@children-inc.org or click here.
