Cycling with Sally

The community where The Salvation Army in Chiclayo is about a 3 Nuevo Soles ($1) taxi ride from the city centre.  Apparently this neighbourhood is rather dangerous, particularly at night.  Although we didn't feel unsafe, the complex is completely encased into a 10 foot brick wall.  Also, we were advised to always walk with a member of the community through the area.   

Firstly, we popped down to introduce ourselves and was warmly received by Major Veronica Cortez, who has been assigned here since February this year.  Over coffee and a snack (that sprung out of nowhere!) we explained who we were and learnt about the services provided here.  Primarily this branch focuses on feeding hungry tummies.  Monday through Friday they serve up a lunch (which is the most important meal of the day here) for some odd 40 adults.  As well, 20 children receive breakfast before school along with assistance with homework after school.  Another enterprise that is showcasing local skills and creating some revenue is making alpaca wool products i.e. hats, socks, scarves, teddy bears and finger puppets.  They each are finished with a "Sally Ann" tag and are really good quality.  

The day we wanted to volunteer also coincided with Peru's National holiday celebrating their Independence. Due to this week long festival, no support with meals was required.  They did however have a job for us to do; good old fashioned painting.  The wall at the entrance of the church was in need of a bit of sunshine.  So we slapped on that paint as well as we could and even broke a brush in the process!  Has anyone else painted brick with a brush the size of your foot?  It's tough going but it looked pretty sunshiny by the end of the day.

Antony and Marco, teenagers from the community (who are aspiring to become Officers of The Salvation Army) had their own projects on the go re-vanishing church pews, tables and the front podium.  It was really lovely having a break with them over a delicious meal Major Veronica had prepared for us all.  Thank you to Major Veronica and Caynoby (the super cuddly dog) for having us and sharing a couple of special days with us.