By Rocio Rebagliati | International Community Referent
We are thrilled to share some great news with all our supporters! La Balsa Center, the haven of hope and transformation for cis and transgender girls and adolescents, has recently undergone a remarkable change. We are now proud to introduce ourselves as Meraki Home. The word "Meraki" originates from Greek and embodies the concept of pouring your soul into everything you do and leaving a lasting essence. This philosophy perfectly aligns with our commitment to the girls we serve.
In response to the profound impact of the pandemic, Meraki Home has taken a crucial step forward. Since May 1st of this year, we have transitioned from being a night center to becoming a Temporary Home, offering round-the-clock assistance. This transformation reflects our dedication to meeting the rising needs of vulnerable young individuals. It was only fitting that we chose a new name to capture the essence of this profound change.
At Meraki Home, we provide a safe haven for girls and adolescents aged 12 to 17 who have experienced violence or homelessness. These courageous young individuals have already received assistance from other institutions and are now welcomed into our home. Monthly, we support an average of 7 to 10 girls, depending on the duration of their stay.
Currently, we are in the midst of renovating Meraki Home to better accommodate our expanded role as a Temporary Home. The addition of more bedrooms will enable us to cater to a larger number of girls, ensuring that nobody in need is turned away. Our dedicated team, comprising a psychologist, two social workers, a kitchen operator, and 14 compassionate individuals, works tirelessly to create personalized plans for each participant. We prioritize their education, partnering with different schools based on their specific needs. In our pursuit of independence, we emphasize the importance of hygiene and self-care. After school, the girls actively participate in workshops designed to develop valuable skills for their future.
At Meraki Home, we are always adapting to the evolving needs of our participants, striving to provide them with the best possible care and support. As we continue this journey of transformation, we wholeheartedly rely on the support of our dedicated backers. Your contributions, both financial and moral, make an immeasurable difference in the lives of these young girls, offering them a chance at a brighter future.
Join us in our mission to empower these courageous souls and create a world where every child feels safe, valued, and loved. Together, we can make dreams a reality and leave an indelible mark on the lives of those we serve. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey at Meraki Home.
Wholeheartedly, The Mensajeros Family.
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