We would be delighted if you come and stay awhile!  If you are interested, please check the availability on our Calendar.  Then email Roy Ketring for an application. When you are ready to come, see our Map and Directions.  We've listed some restaurants and stores at Resources. 

• The cultural standard is to have a regular breakfast, a large mid-day meal and a small, light snack for dinner (like milk and animal crackers).  

• Can I drink the water?  Yes.  The Orphanage has their own clean well with water; you do not need to worry about “Montezuma’s Revenge” from their water. (We can’t recommend you drinking the water elsewhere in Mexico!)   However, like well water in other countries, it has a lot of minerals in it they may be upsetting your system.  It is easy to purchase drinking water at a local store.

• What will I eat while I’m there?  There are two options – bring in your own food to prepare, or eat with the kids.  

• If you bring in your own food, you will need to coordinate with the kitchen staff about when you can prepare and eat your food so that you are not conflicting with their schedule.  

• On the other hand, if you bring money to help with food costs for the Orphanage, it is fun to eat with the kids.  Plan on helping with food preparation, working with the kitchen staff.  SeaTac Bible Church brings $1000 for one week for food.  During this time, the children eat food they don’t normally get (it’s too expensive), so they enjoy it.  SeaTac says they really enjoy the food, as well.

• Either way, please help with washing dishes, cleaning and sweeping.

• It may be a good idea to bring some snacks along such as trail mix, granola bars, nuts or pepperoni.  (Particularly for the diabetics in your group.)  There are several little stores within walking distance that have various Mexican snacks to help supplement your eating.

• There are a few excellent restaurants and stands nearby.  Corre Caminos, located a few minutes down the road to Tecate has great breakfasts and lunches.  Directly across the street from the church is a small stand that has been in the community for several years.  They serve inexpensive but tasty quesadillas, tortas, tacos and carne asada.  If you ever had a question about a place to eat, ask at the Orphanage.  Locals know where to eat and where to avoid.

Pack similar to what you would need camping.  Also consider:

• Photos of your family.  Culturally, families are very important.  The children and adults will enjoy seeing your family.  Americans ask “What do you do?”, but Mexicans want to know about your family.  It helps them to understand about you.

• Baby wipes.  These are great for cleaning up, especially if showers (and water supply) are limited.

• Flashlight.

• Small first aid kit.

• Sleeping bag, pillow, sheet.

• Towel, washcloth.

• Sunscreen.

• Bug spray.  Can be a life saver.