Jean Mateo’s Story
Jean Mateo is four years old.
When he first came to Esperanza de Ana, his parents were concerned. He spoke very little, it was difficult to understand him, and even simple routines—like eating—were a challenge. His family had been navigating a difficult season, with health struggles and long work hours that made it hard to give him the attention he needed.
But what stood out from the beginning was this: his parents wanted something different for their son. Much of our work is with families in crisis and children suffering neglect and even abuse. It’s always a blessing to have the opportunity to walk with a momma and dad who are doing their best to invest in their family.
Over time, we’ve had the opportunity to walk alongside this family. Little by little, they have been making changes—creating healthier rhythms at home, spending more intentional time together, and learning how to support Jean Mateo in new ways.
There are still challenges with Jean Mateo’s language development. But he has become a confident little guy who loves to help and be a leader in his class.
We see growth—not just in Jean Mateo, but in the whole family.
His parents remain committed and consistent. Jean Mateo is being cared for with patience and dedication, especially through the daily work of his teacher Miss Guísela, who has walked closely with him.
And in the middle of this process, we experience something deeper.
We feel the trust being built.
We have deeper conversations about eternal things.
We celebrate small steps that lead to greater opportunities.
And we rest in hope, knowing that we have a Father who will never forget Jean Mateo’s name.
This is what we continue to experience as we walk with families—
not instant change, but steady transformation over time.
Our commitment remains to walk with families for the long term. Just as we have done with Lorenzo’s family.
Lorenzo came to us when he was Jean Mateo’s age. He graduated high school last year, was baptized, and is now a huge blessing to all of our Community as he serves full-time at Esperanza de Ana. His story reminds us that what begins with small steps like these can, over time, become a life shaped to follow Christ.
Thank you for being part of stories like this.
