Patrick in Peru 'It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men'~ Frederick Douglass (Karen) Being out here I'm yet again reminded that I've been unbelievably and undeservedly blessed with my parents and childhood. Childhood is an unknown concept for many children around the world who simply don't have the luxury to spend time playing, exploring and laughing, and who are expected to take on adult roles long before they're ready. Huaraz seems to...

The Underdogs (Mark) One of the big highlights recently was the opportunity to organise and run the annual Arco Iris football tournament for the street kids. It seems the best time to hold this event each year is when there is a male gringo in town. Well, there I was, so let the games begin! Every Saturday morning in March I awoke with the same dread: I'm stepping onto a pitch with an aggressive mob of 7-27 year-olds where literally anything can happen. OK, a s...

Huaraz 'Marches' On As the snow was setting new records at home, the rain was pouring down on Huaraz, heavier than ever before. Being Irish, you'd think we would have felt right at home. Alas, no. We may be used to rain, but rarely does the electricity fail, the rain seep in the windows and ceilings, and the streets become fast flowing rivers in seconds. The deafening thunderstorms that accompany the rain are pretty awesome, if not a little unnerving. Especially...

Paradise in Peru After an intense time in Huaraz since Christmas, we were ready for a bit of a rest... lightweights! A friend had recommended a place on the northern coastline called Mancora, not far from the border with Ecuador. So we set off for a few days with few expectations, just hoping it'd be relaxing. Mancora is as close to heaven on earth that we've found! Golden sands, warm sea, pure sunshine, unparalleled sunsets, in a word: 'paradise'. And what's b...

Chaos in Casma! The school summer holidays in Peru happen during January and February, when kids head off on vacation or day trips with their families (if they can). At the Casa Hogar in Huaraz, however, the budget is tight and staff are few, so holidays don't really exist. Thanks to donations from people at home, we decided to take all 17 kids and some staff away for a day trip to the coast. We were able to cover all travel, food and rental costs. The closest c...