The LAR Maná, under the direction of Ana Valeria Sandes, has developed an educational program for the children. This program was named after mom, in memory of her interest and support as she kept up with and encouraged the children's home from afar.
The educational program began with one part-time special education teacher. From there the Manna from Heaven (Maná do Céu) preschool was started for the young children ages 2-3 who were not included in the preschool programs in the area's public schools, and thus two more part-time teachers/educators.
The pandemic caused school shutdowns with virtual learning which opened up an unprecedented need for educational support for all the children at the children's home. So this school year (2021) we were able to initiate a team for the school-age children (ages 4-12). The school year in Brazil runs from February to November.
Along with the childrens' secular education, we have a daily devotion: Momentos com Deus/Moments with God opportunity. One of our student teachers directs this program. Our opportunity to teach Bible truths to the children is very limited and we have the goal of planting the seeds of faith before they are transitioned to the next phase of their lives.
We are currently remodeling the former administration building into an educational complex and adding an outdoor multiuse space to the area. We are so grateful to all who contributed to the Charlene Wade Children's Fund which is being used for this project along with a children's park area.
