Extending Generosity to Special Needs Ministry in Mexico

For five of the last six summers, Lakesider and pediatric physical therapist Cheri Wieland has traveled with a team to Mexico to serve with Eternal Anchor, an organization serving special needs children and adults in rural Mexico. Cheri and her team, including two other Lakesiders, provide exercise and educational programs for students and teachers, train families, and provide and fit donated equipment, which the team transports from home.

Finding a trailer to borrow each year for carrying the equipment has caused many roadblocks, so Eternal Anchor began requesting donations for a trailer of their own, only to come up short. Knowing Lakeside's heart for generosity and for serving special needs kids and their families, Cheri asked Lakeside about the possibility of funding the remaining trailer balance.

"We've been investing in ministry for kids with special needs here at Lakeside for about twenty years, so it was just a natural extension to be able to help this organization in Mexico and provide a gift that will help a generation of children," Pastor Brad said.

The purchase of the 14x7 trailer will allow storage and transport of medical supplies and therapy equipment, such as wheelchairs, standers, walkers, diapers, and orthotics. 

"Trying desperately each year to find a loaner trailer has not worked well, so Lakeside's generosity is a huge blessing in allowing us to gift this vital therapy equipment," Cheri said.

Eternal Anchor operates a school in rural Baja, Mexico, serving 50 special needs students who would not otherwise be able to attend school. The organization also runs a residential program for children, provides services for adults with disabilities, and takes part in community outreach for community trainings and family respite events.

Let us know if you are interested in serving in Lakeside's Special Needs Ministry. Keep Cheri and her team in your prayers this next week as they transport the equipment and begin therapy and trainings.