By Brandon Seng
ConnectMichigan Alliance

Countless Peruvian children without homes, labeled “street kids,” are struggling for survival in cities like Lurin.  The innocence of these young people is undeniable, while their need remains desperate.  The proportion of this problem is overwhelming, but that couldn’t stop Aquinas College’s Helene Rivard from organizing an effort to make a difference.

Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II is an orphanage for abandoned children located in Lurin, just south of Lima, Peru.  Through a program at Aquinas College, student Helene Rivard has made several missions to Casa Hogar since she became aware of the problems facing children there.  The orphans of Casa Hogar as well as the students of Aquinas have each benefited greatly from her efforts.

Aquinas’s Casa Hogar Student Club is most responsible for fostering relationships with the children in Lurin, and providing them with better suited and safer places to learn.  Helene’s club facilitates drives throughout the year to gather supplies and spread the word about their efforts. 

Looking back on her first mission, Helene recalls being “so moved by this experience that I returned to the United States with renewed energy and passion to help these wonderful children and others who would follow them.”

Helene continues to be an advocate of the program, and has even collaborated with her Spanish professor to raise awareness about Casa Hogar and Aquinas’ missions to Peru.  Casa Hogar’s Director describes Helene as selflessly dedicated to service, with a passion that is “uplifting and inspiring to all those she comes into contact with.”