Eric’s Story
Lily of the Valley Orphanage, Tijuana, Mexico
—by Farley Lafferty, VP of Communications, Inspiration Ministries

Tijuana is a place of overwhelming poverty and crime. U.S. citizens are often warned not to travel there as the kidnapping of Americans has become a lucrative form of crime, and drug cartels have all but taken over the city.

But we were greeted at Lily of the Valley Orphanage gate by hugs and shouts from over 100 children full of hope and laughter. These kids clearly are not in an “institution,” but rather enjoy a true home with brothers and sisters who have found new life in Christ—thanks in part to support from Inspiration Ministries and our Partners.

Although their standard of living may be far from anything you or I have experienced, the children have great pride in the surroundings God has given them…and they are flourishing!

Orphanage directors, Kevin and Sarah, introduced me to several children who suffered terrible abuse until they found a home at Lily of the Valley. Despite their backgrounds filled with trauma and fear, they’ve received great comfort, peace, and healing through the loving ministry of the staff and other children.

Eight-year-old Eric is one of these. This little boy was living alone with this brothers and sisters in a shack next to a garbage dump. Upon arrival at the orphanage, he was immediately taken to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with pneumonia and complete blockage of one lung.

The doctor said Eric would have died if left where he was for one more week. Now Eric and all four of his brothers and sisters are happy, healthy, and thankful to God for their loving home at Lily of the Valley!