Carlitos. Carlito. Carlos. Carlo. Depending on who was doing the asking, Carlitos decided what he wanted to be called. He is a tender-hearted, well-mannered young man with big, brown eyes. He wears an easy smile and seems to be a go-with-the-flow kind of kid who shows consideration to others often. He is also a playful jokester who likes to make people laugh. He is a competitive basketball player, but he also showed a lot of spirit after learning to play four square when he was keeping everyone honest with the rules! He is a great big brother to his siblings, and he really loves the mommas and Pastor Altagracias.
The thing that stood out the most about Carlitos during our trip was the great care and pride he takes in his appearance and wardrobe. He was so proud to show us the two pairs of tennis shoes he owns. Shoes at Casa Amor don't stay clean by accident, and it was apparent he cleans them regularly and is careful about using them. They are probably his most prized possession. He was the first child to walk through the gate of Casa Amor, and I will never forget the photo of him walking alone, pulling a small suitcase behind him with everything he owned, which couldn't have been much, in it. The few second (or third) hand shoes and clothes he owns are his treasures. Click {here} to read about the beginning of Carlito's Casa Amor story and see the first photos we saw of him.
Of the 21 children living at Casa Amor, we know the most about Carlitos' background. His mother passed away when he was young, and at some point his father disappeared and left him with a grandmother. When she died, Carlitos was left alone and completely abandoned. He lived in a market for several weeks, sleeping under tables, stealing food and surviving however he could manage. He was eventually found and reported to CONANI, then delivered to Casa Amor, and his life will never be the same. In six short months, Carlitos has flourished and seems so comfortable in his circumstances. He is completely changed, and we are praying he will continue to succeed with his studies and realize his life has limitless potential. Honestly, we wouldn't be surprised if he is a translator one day for American groups visiting the Dominican Republic! As Tracy was telling him "adios" one day, he responds with a smiling "goodbye!" He told us he spoke a little bit of English, and I feel like he understood the majority of what we were saying to him. Being bi-lingual would be a huge asset for Carlitos to have in his future!
As always, No Longer would love to have you partner with us in caring for the children of Casa Amor. Monthly and one-time donations help provide the basics... food, school tuition, caretaker salaries and medical treatment. Click here for more information.
"Hate evil, love good, and establish justice in the gate!"
Amos 5:15
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