El Nido, meaning “The Nest”, is a program of VidaNet reaching out to disciple pregnant women. The moms receive classes, complete homework, and participate in discussions. They “learn to earn” as their completed work gains “mama points” to purchase items for their children.
As a former social worker from Tegucigalpa, Honduras, I have been leading El Nido the past few years and I can’t believe how much El Nido has impacted my life since I first became involved in the program. Gloria Hoover began El Nido and poured her heart into it, and I feel so blessed to be able to continue her vision for these different women from all walks of life. El Nido is a support group that helps carry these women. It brings a sense of community into their everyday lives that might not have been there before.
I have been where some of these women have walked. The same things that happened in their lives, have happened in mine. I am grateful to use my experience to help them. I would be selfish to hold back the advice and comfort that I know some of these women are craving.
Yet the heroes of El Nido are the volunteers, the ones who give counsel and love to every woman who walks through the doors of our centers. They are also the ones who pray and who send donations of baby items from the States! I am so excited to help receive the teams this summer with Vida Missions because of the energy and support they bring to VidaNet as a whole but the support they also bring for El Nido.
As one mom currently in the program declares,
“How can I not be grateful?! For me El Nido has been a home. The people shower me with love and play with my other children. They have helped me a lot in my walk with God. The group is made up of people who love me! Delmys understands, and is an exceptional lady. She advises me and challenges me psychologically. The little things that I can buy for my son are also a great blessing. Thanks to God and for guiding me to this wonderful center.”
By Delmys Reyes
El Nido Program Coordinator