In 2006, the Honduras government invited Buckner by special invitation of the First Lady, to visit the orphanages and needs of the children in Honduras. Additionally, Buckner crossed the borders of Honduras for the first time on an exploratory trip to visit orphanages in the city of San Pedro Sula. Since then, Honduras has become one of our fastest-growing areas of service.
Humanitarian Aid and Support Programs
Buckner has sent numerous humanitarian aid shipments to Honduras, including orphanage support materials, shoes donated through Buckner’s Shoes for Orphan Souls drive, and donations to buy gifts for children in celebration of the country’s “Day of the Child.”
Although interrupted in mid-2009 by government upheaval, Buckner had 19 mission trips scheduled for Honduras for the year. For the latest information on Buckner mission trips to Honduras, click here (www.itsyourmission.org).
Transitional Girls Home in San Pedro Sula
A program designed to help young women transition out of care. It is planned to launch in May 2009 with 6 to 8 girls and will focus on equipping them to become self-sufficient and independent.
Transitional Girls Home in Roatan
An alliance between Buckner International and Kids Matter International, the transitional girls home on Roatan Island serves as foster group care and an assessment center for girls ages 8-17 who cannot live at home because they are at risk of abuse and trafficking. The goal is for the girls to stay no longer than 90-120 days before transitioning them to Buckner or other foster or kinship care or, ideally, back home through our family intervention programs. Buckner Children and Family Services provides operational management and Kids Matter provides oversight and initial funding for the project, which is expected to be in operation by early September, 2009
Nueva Esperanza:
A government-run orphanage, for which Buckner provides food, diapers as well as clothing donations and equipment. Buckner is making plans to be more involved in this orphanage so that the children in the program can receive better care and more attention. A playground will be installed on the orphanage grounds in May 2009.
Casitas Adolescentes:
In July 2008, two large dorms were renovated with the additions of a new drop ceiling and insulation. Buckner also provides food, clothing, craft materials, and special activities to this orphanage on an
ongoing basis.
