BRIDGE THE GAP UPDATES (We have been having some issues with this page updating. Please forgive any typo's :)

2024 Year in Review & Big News for 2025

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 20:51:24 GMT

The year seemed to fly by faster than I imagined it could. A lot of great things happened personally as well as for the families of Bridge the Gap Inc. Nothing happens here without support.

Thank you from me and the families you impacted in small and big ways!

I hope 2024 ends with a pleasant bang for you and your family.

May 2025 be better than you could have imagined.

ANTHONY

2024 Recap and News

Personally

After a year of courtship, I was married to a great woman named Didiana in April of 2024. She has two children 12 and 8. Mixing families usually has ups and downs. Glad to say we adjusted well and look forward to even better days ahead.

I had a desire a few years ago. To travel to Peru without major restrictions. What started in May of 24’finally concluded in November when I received a notification from Migracion that my Visa application here in Peru was approved. It was a big mess, required a lot of patience and persistence but all eventually worked out. I will forever be thankful to the people who helped me in this process.

Bridge the Gap

We helped a few new families this year with medical issues, travel and medicine. We also received the funds to provide them a new roof and replace the front area of a house that was washed away by rain.

With the money we received we also supplied several families with school supplies for their children. If your new to BTG that may seem like a small thing. However, these families do not have those funds. “IF” the child even attends school, then they would not have the resources to do their homework. So, this is a big deal.

We discovered in our network a family of four whose mother had passed away and father had turned to alcohol and was no longer in their lives. Their community was helping them. A sponsor helped get them beds and much more. We can do a great work for these kids, to include getting them their own home.

Our Bebés Con Esperanza- Giving Babies Hope program was not able to get off the ground like it could have and as we had done in the past. Instead, we provided moms with new babies necessities for the families as funds were available.

The needs of families here are plentiful. One can find one here each day if they desired. We helped many more than mentioned in many ways. Jesus said that true religion was to feed orphans and widows. Helping the less fortunate with what we have until we no longer can is how we will operate. All the while trusting that God will supply daily needs. Not every need however needs money. A little help to a homeless person can lead to a needed hug or smile.

Everything matters.

Donations

As of to-date we have received a total of $10,000 of the $20,000 goal we had for 2024. However, $2300 of that was earmarked to help another organization. So we technically have received $9000 at this point. I am more than happy! I do hope that someone can step up and help us, because helping BTG means helping families in a big way to end the year a lot happier and make Christmas special.

We have a few donors giving from $10 a month to $150 a month equating to $460 per month or $5,520 per year. That amounted to over 25% of the budget ($20,000). We make plans and trust God will direct those plans to fruition if they are to be.

The results have been nothing short of a miracle.

2025 Big News!

Moms with New Babies

Expanding the current program, we are looking ways to add new moms. I received permission from the hospital in San Juan to bring gift bags with essentials to moms who just delivered their babies. They said there are about 45 per month. I have not committed to them yet, as I want to be sure I have the funds to move forward. Each bag will have an outfit, diapers, wipes, cream for rashes and a voucher for a free bag of food they can pick up at the BTG-Office that is close by the hospital. We can at that time have them apply for assistance and to enter the mom’s program. This program Bebés con Esperanza, operates during the school year months from April to December.

English Classes

This upcoming year I will be teaching conversational English a few days per week as well as looking to provide spiritual guidance to those who are open and seeking. We will eventually bring student missionaries to teach these things.

Mission Trips

Pack those bags! We are ready to bring small groups of seven (7) or less people to Iquitos. Here you can see the work, get involved with a project we have or one another organization is providing. I can also take you to visit Lima, Cusco or other famous destinations like Machu Picchu. We strongly suggest planning 10-12 months in advance.

School Feeding Program

We can make a big impact for families and kids by providing quality food to those who’s families do not have the means to provide their children a lunch. Some of these kids are getting one meal a day.

Communication and New Donors

This area has been my weakest area. It is not because I can’t. It is mainly because I chose to do different things with my time. BTG is not my full-time work. I volunteer here doing what I can with what I have. I also need to make money to live. It has been a crazy busy year with work.

I will be cutting back on things that are not paying off. Sometimes It’s been a lot of work and very little return. Lesson learned!

With all that said. I will start doing more live moments, and postings of things happening and especially as they happen. My hope and big dream are to communicate to you more as well as the 150 followers on FB and that will multiply.

As you take a look at the proposed budget for 2025 know it, like every year is hypothetical. When we receive the funds, we will run these programs.

Those items marked with an ** are considered BIG WISH items and not part of the annual budget.

2025 Budget

Moms with new babies:

Program	Number	Cost Monthly	Cost for Year
Gift Essentials for Moms with new babies	45 Per Month (540 Moms and babies for the year)	$675.00 ($15 for each Mom)	$8,100
Bebés Con Esperanza	10 moms & 4 meetings per month	$150	$1800.00
Orphans Home			$3000.00
Family Sponsorships	10	$300 ($30 for a family)	$3600 ($360 for the year)
English Class/ Bible Studies Space and Supplies	2X’s per Week	$400	$4800
Mother’s Day Program	1		$500
Christmas program for all participants of BTG.	1		$1500
Accountant	12	$100	$1200
Total Budget			$24,500
Back to School Event (1)	20 children (Party with School Supplies and Uniforms)	$150	$3000
Back to School Event (2)	20 children in a remote village	$75	$1500
School Feeding Program	100 kids	$400	$4800
BTG Part Time Assistant Translator, Family Visits, Purchasing and Deliveries	1@20 hours a week.	$250	$3000
TOTALS with Optional Programs		$1825	$35,800

Feeding Orphans

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Life can be tough for teenagers in any country. Tougher yet when mom passes away and your dad turns to alcohol and disappears. That is the case for this family of four. The teen sisters are going to school, taking care of their little brothers and selling cakes to make money. We found them through a network connection letting us know their need.

They have received food and supplies to bake. A generous donor also gave them their best Christmas in a long time with beds and gifts. I had the pleasure to meet with them for a meal at the local community leaders home. They are doing their best to alleviate problems.

It would be a great service to this family to find a sponsor for food and supplies. We are also looking to build them a house now in 2025. We had to make sure all would be legal before we could move forward in this area. We did not want to build a house and have another occupy or sell it.

If you can help this family you can donate today!

Year in Review

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 05:49:13 GMT

Why we are smiling in Peru!

Each year brings its success mistakes and various things in between. The important thing is to be better each day because lives and opportunities are at stake for children roaming the streets, babies born into poverty and poor sanitary conditions. Families in Iquitios Peru are in constant need of education and hope. Hope that there can be change. When they see it, well all are all smiling and amazed.

Take Carmen and her family for instance. They have been supported by Bridge the Gap's generous donors. This last year we moved toward helping Carmen start a small busines. I contacted a family member, let them know what was happening and that for less than $200 they could give this family a better opportunity. They agreed!

Six months later and Carmen has saved more money than they could have imagined. Our on the ground stafferg Violeta and Lilliana make regular visits with Carmen and our other families being served. She is able to give hope and collect funds we keep saved for the families. They are also buying their own products and making enough for food and other needs.

When I made a recent visit with Carmen, her demeanor was so elated. She was so happy and thankful. So I asked her a scary question, "What can we do to help you to do even better? You have been faithful in this one thing so if possible I would like to help you even more." I say scary because we run on a very tight budget. This last year we were in the black by $44. When monies come in we use it in faith knowing God will provide the way because he has directed us to this work. Trust me I would like to have a month or two of the budget saved. It has not happened yet, but it will. I did not have the funds personally to make this happen for Carmen, but I know God loves and rewards people here as well as to come.

I was so happy to talk to a long time donor and his wife from Star Idaho who invested a lot over the years for these families. They agreed to provide the funds that helped them purchase products in bulk to sell. This should in turn provide a greater return where they can buy these products themselves into the future. Gracias Mucho Gracias Amigo's!

Sometimes these families simply need a little boost to gain momentum.

My most exciting news is we were able to bring back to life our Bebés con Esperanza program. We are giving babies better chances to thrive, as well as greater opportunities for their moms and families. We have a group of 12-18 women and their babies.

This is them gathering at the annual Chocolatada Party held during the Christmas season.

These babies, moms and their families will receive the following:

Additional visits from doctors during our bi-weekly meetings.
Additional nutritional needs
Food
Education
Medical support
After vetting, small business support
Project support such as new housing and other construction needs.

All we do now in Iquitos flows from this endeavor and support of Beb és con Esperanza!

A HUGE THANK YOU.. TO YOU!

I was amazed before our last board meeting for the year to discover over all donations had increased more than two fold and we moved to nearly 30 heroes like you that donated food to families, a home, humanitarian aid, medical costs, small business support and more.

In comparison to other organizations it may seem like a small amount. For us it was big and so encouraging! Each American dollar currently equates to almost 3.50 Peruvian soles. Therefore smaller gifts have a big impact. Occasionally we occur and unexpected expenses. I believe in transparency and I need to be more consistent in helping spread the message. I am telling you I could not have come up with what we needed. In moments like that, I remember lessons learned in years past. God would provide and He did through you! We have less than 10 monthly donors and are excited to add new Heroes for BTG to the family of support. If you would like to help, even a $5 monthly gift adds up you can do that here. https://bit.ly/3ojVW0m

This last year I made a decision to support two staff and operations costs so that donations directly impacted these families. We became a legal non profit in Peru and are maintaining that status as well. It was not an easy year but I have given my life to this endeavor. The work is slow and steady as a volunteer myself. I returned from a 3 month stay in Iquitos in February 2022. It was tough at times, but more than worth the effort and sacrifice. My vision is to have BTG Peru sustainable for many years to come. Having local staff is key to this achievement.

We are streamlined, have a processes and continue to be better, more efficient and focused with our approach. Thank you so much for your help for as you served these little ones, mothers, brothers, fathers and grandparents, you directly touched the heart of God who takes these love acts personal.

We are already in the first quarter of 2022. Time is that thing we cant control, buy, or change however what we can choose is what's the best thing to do with the time we have.

Violeta, Lilliana and I hope and pray 2022 finds you in good health and prosperity.

Giving Thanks

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 03:58:03 GMT

Love makes people smile!

So thankful as I look over the last year, a year that’s not done. However thanksgiving is on us soon. I take time every day to be grateful for so many things even during some difficult times.

T- Teamwork- Violeta, Liliana, Elmer are three great people who believe and are working toward helping others personally as well as for Bridge the Gap. Without them nothing happens.

H- Happy- Happy to have started supporting families small business endeavors. Product purchases allow these families to work toward moving out of poverty and into lasting happiness.

A- Appreciation- What we appreciate in life appreciates. It get larger and becomes encompassing because of action. What I really appreciate from our team is what it has done more than maybe what has been said in the past year.

N- New- New families, new initiatives new Opportunities others could never achieve, become reality by small and large donations of time, talent and treasures.

K-Kindness- The kindness of supporters who also stepped up to help build two homes this year, support small business and gave to ensure we can begin Bebes Con Esperanza.. giving Babies and their moms hope with education, nutritions and emotional support.

S-Service- Serving others saves them from pain, misery and discouragement. It also changes us in the process! The strongest people do things for others everyday. Thank

G-Gratitude - Thankful for the BTG family and the decade of support that has helped so many families in Iquitos Peru. Without you, nothing listed below could have been accomplished.

I-Involvement- The involvement of our families who work hard with the opportunities they are given. Opportunities they never could have without others.

V-Vision - Without vision, a revelation of sorts, people as well as organizations fail to advance. The team in Peru created vision for what they desired and are following through to make it happen. How exciting!

I-In - In faithfulness we move knowing we may make mistakes, but we will lighten the lives of others. Being “in” grace, “in” solved, in “assurance” we have peace everything is going to be ok.

N-Never Giving Up . Life is difficult for all at various times. Never giving up on the dream, the vision, the work, serving, encouraging one another in love within a world of negativity that numbs the spirit.

G- GOD… He is the beginning and the end. So I saved the best for last. God thank you for hope that does not disappoint. You have been faithful to this cause to help it Grow in its reach to others. We are the light in Iquitos and beyond because of you!

Business Building and Support

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 21:30:32 GMT

Families in Iquitos build up their businesses to get out of poverty.

When you have a dream, a vision or an idea sometimes it takes time for it to come to fruition. The BTG Team has desired better outcomes for the people it has served for over a decade. Thanks to some amazing support families have greater chances to make that happen.

"I want to build these businesses up. I am so excited!" - Violeta BTG Peru President

From Violeta:

The BTG staff are currently carrying out a market study, verifying which businesses are the most profitable in the city. We expect to gain valuable information for possible ventures of our BTG families we made a filter and selected the following ideas:

Cellars

Sale of Regional Products

Photocopying Business

Sale of Sweets

Raising Chickens

These projects were born with the initiative that the families with whom we work can generate their own income and take advantage of the knowledge they have or in the business that they know and that from home they can work without neglecting their children and in turn that it is sustainable.

Thank you to the generous donor who made this possible. We will monitor weekly, and expect to have good results at the end of the year so you can feel proud that you helped.

When a small business project is supported it literally increases their income potential by 4 fold.
For example Carmen, image below was funded by a donor for $150 U.S. She was able to increase her product line and quantity, something she could never have done with out help. She has more visibility, she receives weekly visits for education, accountability and encouragement. She has hope because she goal was to make an extra 388 soles per month. In her first week, she was right on course profiting 109 soles in 5 days.
She is well on her way to achieve this goal with hard work, accountability and hope.

What is poverty? Locally it is making $900 soles, or roughly $220 US dollars a month.

Family sponsorships are needed to help families with opportunities for medical, dental, food and emergency support. It also helps their current business to help them begin to get ahead.

We have several businesses we have been able to support. From chicken production, to sweets, to produce and food.
These are items the people of Iquitos consume.

As in the United States, work serves the immediate family, and community. No job is to menial, every service and product sold meets the needs of someone. It is why we also believe work to be a special gift from God to people for everyone's benefit. When we see that the work we do is meant to be a blessing, we in turn can become a blessing as well as love what we do because it matters.
Connecting those dots to our interested BTG Families is an important aspect as well.

You can help a family like Carmen's out of poverty today!

Helping is easy! Click here to find a family business you can support.

More than a home part 2

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 18:37:39 GMT

This project is complete but the work is far from over.

If you have ever had a remodel project, or tried to build something brand new, you realize rather quickly nothing goes as planned or expected.
This project turned into a minor night mare from the purchasing of materials (increased by 1/3), and construction process. We learned a few lessons from this project and working with this family that will last into the near future.

Fortunately the project came to a close and this family was so blessed to have a safe place to live, all thanks to generous donors who called looking for a project to fund.

Soon they will remove the things from the former dwelling into their new space. We are super excited for them, as they are to be in a safe and much more secure place out of the elements!

Every project, and family has various existing and sometimes immediate difficulties. In working with this family it has come again to our attention how important education and communication are. We have a mission. Help removed them from poverty. Helping with a broken home, food and emergency needs ends up being part of this mission. When mom fell out of the old home, it was a problem for her in which we sought to help. As we get to know families, although we vet them from the beginning, we end up finding out other issues. Sometimes there is pre existing debt as well as poor family dynamics, alcohol abuse and the list goes on.

I am pointing this out as a reminder the scope of helping move people out of poverty, to give them hope requires a lot of attention and education. We have seen some do the least amount personally possible in this endeavor and others who go above and beyond.

I am thankful to our BTG Team in Iquitos. They work hard during rain or shine and in many aspects and areas to fulfill this mission. Thank you for your support, as it helps and encourages them as well. When a donation comes in, I let them know and we celebrate together. Every penny matters. I personally volunteer for Bridge the Gap and in the process spend my own funds to travel and currently give enough to ensure those working for these families are not starving themselves. I have seen this happen, and pride would keep them from saying a word.

When you or someone you know donates, it helps it tremendous ways. 100% of the money for food, projects, school supplies, medical issues and other needs donated goes to those needs. 100% of any money given to help support those who actually do the work in Peru, goes to those individuals. Without them, there will not be a BTG. We are like all non-profits, we exist because people choose to have generosity overcome scarcity. This act gives those families a lot of hope!

Thank you again for your interest as well as choosing to help in whatever way you can. - Anthony

Family Building More than a Home

Sat, 14 Aug 2021 14:37:12 GMT

Family to receive new home after flooding

A few times each year the waters rise and fall. Through time, the structures built in these areas give way to rot and an ever weakening foundation.

The structure is unsafe and unfortunately mom fell and was injured. They currently have their things in the home, and share a place with her sister who lives next door. The homes were semi connected by a plank bridge several feet off the ground.

Bridge the Gap is an organization that seeks to live by faith. Stretching each donation as far as possible. I became aware of the situation after I left Iquitos in May. This family is one we believe can and will do well. Their daughter is a recognized talent as well with Volleyball. As much as they are in need of a home, they are also in need of a sponsor.

I was so grateful to hear from a long time leader and supporter that they would like to help with a project. Marjorie was at the top of our list. We were surprised in the process to find that as in United States, the cost of materials sky-rocketed and we were short. Thank's to the continued support of large and small donations, we were able to purchase everything we needed.

They have begun building the new home and will tear down the existing structure at the end of the project because their things are still in the leaning structure.

Thank you for your support, and your prayers for this family. Marjories husband has come back from working out of the area. He is working now as a motor car driver, and looking for other work. Marjorie gained employment by cleaning a home, and was also funded to increase the product and scope of her existing small business.

We are so thankful and excited to see them in a better situation by moving them out of the poverty that really only exists because they have not had the opportunities to achieve greater things. Stay tuned for more updates on this lovely family. If you are interested in sponsoring this family, or know someone who can, their story is below. Or click to go to the sponsorship page.

Cincuenta means....?

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT

A little can go a long way to move a family from poverty

A Girls Hopes Come True

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 00:20:24 GMT

New BTG Family- Adorable

Don't you just love it when the unexpected happens in a good way?

I found myself visiting a new family that Violeta became acquainted with. This hard working mom spends her evenings doing what she can by working with the trash crews that drive through the city at night picking up garbage. Many feel that is a job only for men, however Celestina will do whatever it takes to put food on the table for her family.

It was nice to know her and her oldest child. They were a peaceful bunch as the youngest lie fast asleep in the hammock next to us. The oldest, we will call Tabitha, was very shy, especially of this strange American sitting in her living room.

As we started winding down the conversation I looked over at Tabitha and asked about her. What she loved about school, and if she had any things she loved doing. Well turns out Tabitha loves to dance, specifically as a ballerina. I could see the smile coming out as she mentioned it.

I realize we are in Iquitos, and this mom is trying hard, but even her hardest is not enough to afford some things. So I asked if she had shoes.

Oh you could see her thinking. She did not have shoes like the other children. The shoes she had were definitely not made for dancing. So I asked Violeta if we could get her shoes. Mom was elated and I could see happy tears begin to swell. Then as I looked at Tabitha I saw she was starting to cry.

I thought I had done something wrong. -_-

They were simply so happy to be able to have those shoes. I didn't want to cry, but it is a contagious thing at times. Right?

So we determined we would get her shoes. We even looked through the city for half a day to find them, so we will resort to Amazon or Lima.

Violeta let me know that they were all sleeping on the same bed, and at some point they would like a bed for Tabitha. I remember sleeping with my parents, or with my sister as a child simply because we did not have a lot of money. It was an amazing feeling to have ones own bed and eventually ones own room. We wanted this to happen for them.

Fortunately we received some great donations while I was in Iquitos. So we agreed to get her a bed. So many smiles and such happiness came to that family today because friends and family from a great distance cared enough to help this family and others like them.

Thank you again and again for helping this little girls hopes come true.

Please note: Celestina and her children are available for sponsorship. We see a good future for them, and know they will move from poverty to a better situation for their family. You can be a major part of this, and can read more about them on our sponsorship page.
https://www.btgcharity.com/sponsor-a-family

Home Project - Final Update

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 21:40:09 GMT

When the waters came, they stayed!

This last month I was able to visit one of BTG's newest families. A family I am proud to also be able to personally sponsor! Luis and his family were, if you remember in some pretty dire straits. They were living on the ground in a make shift home. With winter upon them, the waters would soon rise forcing them to move out to the street.

Thanks to a few amazing donors, we were able to have their home built. It is a two story dwelling with a small deck off the front and back. I spent a few days with this family. They even had me for lunch, which was delicious. I was so full!

During my time there the waters began to rise. What was at first dry, needed planking to get from the road to the inside of the homes steps leading to the upper level. They were so happy!

I am so impressed with their spirit and outlook on life. They taught me about their specific native language and had some interesting embarrassing moment stories to share. We want to build lasting relationships with our families- we are family!

For now they are dry. Yet their story is not over. With a small store and an entrepreneurial mindset, they are working to get out of poverty so that their children may have greater opportunities. Spending time with this family impacted me greatly. Each family has been so loving and kinds and hopeful.

From food, to future help with funding with their small businesses, together, we have a chance to be a part of a transformational experience.

Interested in visiting Peru? We are ready to facilitate an experience that helps the poorest of the poor as well as any challenges you may be facing.

Iquitos Home Project..

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 02:11:52 GMT

Update 3- When it Rains it Pours!

Since our last update, as you can see, Iquitos has had a good share of water and flooding through out the city.

I say, "No más agua! No más lluvia!"

Although the rains have been heavy and high there always seems to be a break in the weather. Fortunately for our friends in Peru as well as for the home project we are endeavoring to finish this is the case.

More materials, means more progress in spite of the soggy conditions.

From Violeta- BTG Peru President

"I think the house is moving fast and I am glad to have been able to contribute to making that family's dream come true.

Their situation is like many families who are looking for a comfortable place for their children and think that many are not empathic with people with disabilities. This led me to help them in their place. As I consider the effort they make to stand out , I think it deserves a great deal applause for them continuing to fight for progress in life.

I think the house is moving fast and I am glad to have been able to contribute to making that family's dream come true.

I know whatever the situation is, we must always continue without losing faith and hope, we know that we have a God who sees our needs and who always cares for us, and that led us to meet them."

I was very surprised to see so much progress in such a short time as I consider the weather. I have no frame of reference to know how fast these homes are built. Yes the pun was intended... :)

Roofing, walls and floors! I can't wait to walk through that door! So happy to see this.

Thank you again for your support, prayers and well wishes. Bridge the Gap is proof that communities can help one another even over a distance of 4000+ miles. Stay tuned for more. - Anthony BTG President

Iquitos Home Project

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 22:13:11 GMT

Update 2- It begins...

Hey thanks for checking in.

Helping my daughter get back from Indiana this past week (long drive) and was presently surprised to receive some messages, videos and images from Violeta. For two days they traveled around buying materials. These homes are built with pressure treated homes, no cement from my understanding.

Within two days they had made some great progress. I am really excited to see it going so well. I am not sure they were used to being filmed and was really glad to see the tall guy step in and save the day! :)

I love the music and dearly wish I were there to help. However, if I were to be bare foot and on that beam the video would probably go viral as I would epically fall immediately from a sliver or for just being wimpy footed.

They are well on the way. Thanks again to you for support past and present. Every penny matters and leads to helping families like this move out of poverty and smile in the process. Muchas Gracias! Stay tuned for more. If you want to be involved in our next building project, cost is typically $1500 US Dollars, email me anthony@btgperu.com or simply click the donate button at the bottom or top of this page.

New Home Project- Iquitos Peru

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 20:28:08 GMT

Update 1

Little over a year ago, BTG President Violeta discovered a nice gentleman in her local travels. She realized he was in pain and disabled. In that time we tried to connect him to other services in the area and became more aware of their story and situation.

This family came to the city a year ago looking for a better quality of life and access to a good education for their children, when they arrived in the city without a place to live, they stayed at the house of their wife's parents until they had the opportunity to get land and have a place of their own to live. They are working toward their own business of selling fuel.

Right now, however their living conditions are fairly miserable. At some point they were not welcome anymore as as space was limited. There was a settling of an area so they found a space and used what materials they could find to have something. With the flooding season upon them, they will not be able to stay there.

Our goal at BTG is to help families out of poverty. However some needs are immediate and as we considered their situation we decided to act. First came our commitment to help them with these new living conditions. Due to various reason, COVID, my personal illness and other factors funds are being used to help, yet becoming sparse. I have had a long experience with God in these situations. Whether someone wants their children in school or other services, I know He will provide. Liz and I felt believed we could start the act of faith ourselves by giving $500 to this family. Soon after two more joined and we are able to start.

Today, March 10 the materials were delivered. Violeta says it was a very emotional day as the father wept over this act of charity for their family. Crying can be contagious as you know, and well it was a tear-filled morning, but one to celebrate.

I am so thankful to those who gave, for the hope we can give and the opportunities that are created through small and large gifts.

Super grateful to God who connects us in life to make differences.

If you are still reading, this family is available for sponsorship. You can do that on our S ponsorship page as the Teleccio Celis Family.

Stay tuned for more updates!

2020 A Year Worth Remembering

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 16:22:58 GMT

Building Bridges to Remove Poverty During a Pandemic

A lot has transpired in the last 12 months, much more than was expected by me personally, professionally and as an organization. It was filled with frustration, angst, and sometimes despair with nagging illnesses, family stressors, national chaos and global struggles. The 2020 trend seemed negative. The news surely confirmed that the "sky is falling." I felt for the many isolated in their homes here in the US and abroad. Slammed with personal work I was more than frustrated with my ability to do more for Bridge the Gap. Fortunately 2020 was not and is not the end of the story. Much was learned. Weaknesses were discovered and we can be better because of it.

Today is New Years Eve day and I am hopeful. Hopeful for the future no matter how bleak it may seem to be at times. Happy BTG has great leadership in Peru. I can't express how grateful I am for Viloleta, BTG- Peru President. (Pictured Below) She has continued to work hard, meet to set plans and programs. Traveling far and wide to serve the community, make stronger networks, and literally help to save lives in Peru amidst a Pandemic that ran amuck there as well as sever lockdowns. Studies show that somewhere between 85-97% of the population in Iquitos was infected. They are doing well now though! I am grateful for the local team that helped her as well.

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It's been a year of transition, slower than I wanted. Yet considering all the struggles, I am more than happy. You can look through this site to find out what we are doing together and how important you are for others to move toward hope in 2021.

I want to brag right now, so I will. People ask me, "What BTG is doing?" My first thoughts are about what you have been doing. It is why I brag. Whether you have prayed, gave funds, spread the word or volunteered, what was done mattered immensely. Everything under the sun, in my estimation, is integrated. We live and move and breath because of providence, and need one another in this delicate system called life. We are like an invisible body as the BTG family, with each doing different things and serving in various capacities.

Sure I can list a half a dozen consistent things BTG has been doing, with other opportunities around the bend. Timing and funds are always necessary and that is also why I affirm you. Without the gifts of 2019 & 2020... NOTHING, and I mean NOTHING would have happened positively in Peru. We could not travel physically, however funds could and did.

Babies who were malnourished were fed and recovered. (Naomi below) Those with malaria and dengue were visited and assisted. Many with COVID were fed, at the expense of health for those supporting them.

We moved toward establishing a greater work in Rwanda Africa. Brian Blessed, local volunteer director (image right below) has volunteered many hours to make connections, develop plans. I have paid him personally when I am able. I greatly appreciate Brian. Brian, once a refugee, eventually worked as an employee of Africa New Life. He coordinated assistance to 300 children with them. I am glad he is my friend, his passion for helping the needy is great, his skills are tremendous.

Rwanda was also locked down, which made things difficult for many. With your help, we were able to serve some by providing food. I had wished we could do more, and I take responsibility for not being able to do that by better communicating the need.

We have 80 high school aged kids, who are from the eastern province in Rwanda. They do not have the money it takes to receive an education. Without that education, their outcomes are bleak. A local organization is willing to allow BTG under their umbrella to be established. They are serving that community in other ways that's proving to create great opportunities. Education is where support is greatly needed.

Again.. nothing happens with out you and others. All things are possible with a God who I believe is for us, not against us. We must work to make it happen. Any success comes from Him. Therefore whether in the light of night or the dark of day we will move in 2021. We will talk and share and see what a little from everyone can do in a BIG way.

Happy New Year!

Anthony
BTG- US President

La Chocolatada

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 22:46:38 GMT

Bringing the Joy of Christmas with a Peruvian Tradition in the Jungle

This will be a good story that i have to re write for the second time because i did not save the other one like a fool

REMEMBER IN DECEMBER

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

BTG Peru President Violeta Reflects on the many opportunities to connect.

It is that time of the year I hope you will fall in love with something that excites and makes me feel happy, I call it "December".

Why do I call it this?

December has been very important month for me since I can remember and continues to be for many children in Peru and beyond. It is magical to find something special, even if small. It is also a month for love, reconciliation, sharing and peace.

We hope you will smile and enjoy this December, as well as imagining a Christmas happening from afar here in Peru. As you are surrounded by friends, neighbors or family we hope you will remember us, unite in spirit and play as we do in our hearts, so as to feel the magic of being children again.

Although we can't be where you are, I hope you feel that we are with you. A home is where one’s heart is. Our house is your house. Family is more than a bond of blood. It is one where we love without condition, accept, embrace and invite others to experience togetherness regardless of race, color or economic status. We can be people who with open arms welcomes all.

On December 15th, I will be in Puerto Alegre which is located on the banks of the Amazon River. Many children are waiting for us. They will eagerly anticipate the Chocolata Party, a Peruvian tradition, that will give the children a full day of joy and sharing. They will receive sweets and a toy as well thanks to your generosity. We will become family to 100 new families that day. A day they would not experience without your kindness.We hope and believe it’s possible to also change their reality in their homes as we move into 2021.

I hope this news bring warmth to your heart, and that we truly experience the joy of Christmas in spirit at home or wherever we are. This December will be more special than ever because together we will bring joy, faith and hope to all the families we see. I hope it will help us to also be bearers of good news into 2021 as well.

Merry Christmas!

Violeta Estrada Ahuite

Banana!

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 00:00:00 GMT

When opportunity knocks, give away Banana's?...

In Iquitos, at certain harvest times there are an influx of bananas (plantains). Because so many come at the same time to the markets, farmers will look for creative ways to sell. A woman who works in the jungle came back to find it was impossible to sell her many bunches of bananas. They can't take them back on the boat. The idea of sharing is important to Peruvians who believe it is better to give it away rather than have it waste. Violeta just happened to tell me about the situation with this lady. I strongly believe that if I can do something to help someone, I must. I could have prayed for her, but felt like there was something we could do that would benefit many. We were already handing out food bags, so I thought to my self, "Self, why don't we buy those bananas, which will keep them from rotting, keep this lady from a loss and we can give them away. Jesus did say we are to feed His people." The decision was made and the word spread.

Family after family came for two days until 200 bunches of bananas, like you see in the picture were gone. That's a lot of bananas for a couple, or even a family to consume in time, so many will share with family and neighbors. I love those things in Tacu Tacu, and amazing Peruvian dish.

Thank's Violeta, BTG Peru President for helping to make this happen as COVID continues be a pain in the lives of many.
Thanks you for continued financial support that allows us to meet long term and immediate needs for families.

Anthony

Food for Families

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

They were in need, and you provided!

COVID-19, a term we will never forget. The world has changed, seemingly for the worse. With so many sick, with so many restrictions there were subsequently many in need. Children were home with parents unable to receive education in Iquitos. During this time BTG as well as other local Non-Profits took a good look at what was happening in Iquitos, and decided to help in a different way.

Thousands were without food, and starving. It seemed worse than the effects of virus. President Violeta and local volunteers and board members found family after family in need. In a fast and furious effort we asked for funds to help, you provided within the day. We were able to feed 100 families immediately and hundreds since.

Violeta even made her way to a remote village in the Amazon (Above Image).

Thank you for your generosity in turbulent times. When many hunkered down and or hoarded supplies here, you took the time to give. For these families it meant simply having something to eat. Just as important is the hope you helped to bring.

Thank you!

A Flippin Good Time

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

A Pool Party in Peru

For the last several years when visiting Iquitos Peru, Chuck and Shirl Bobst, founders would treat the children from a local school they supported with a pool party. This year we were fortunately able to continue the tradition. The place was booked, the cake and goodies were arranged by Violeta. Transportation from the school was secured.

As the bus arrived, so did the smiles. Some would remember the event from years past and for others it would be a new experience. It's not everyday one has a pool party in the U.S. let alone the jungle of Peru. For these children and their parents to simply enjoy the time, is what I refer to as time well spent.

The day was smoldering hot and I was longing to cool down. Rains were intermittant with a good chance of thunder.

I was the new kid on the block, but never shied from meeting new friends. So to break the ice, some ball catching games were had. I loved teaching them Marko-Polo. It was hilariously fun, especially when the adults participated.

No pool party ends without some challenge of holding ones breath the longest. Probably not fair that I can hold my breath for 4-5 minutes, so was I the winner. Is competition with children a bad thing? :) jajaja

So many smiles, so much joy and a good time had by all. Glad we could play and long to do so again. Please know children, you should keep practicing as I will try for 6 minutes next time. 0_o...

Anthony