CHOCOLATADA FOR CHILDREN OF THE VALLEY

Chocolatadas are the closest thing to the traditional Christmas break up in Australia - like the Christmas Tree Night at the local hall in the old days. They can actually be a nightmare. However, with the problems of the valley, we invited local "Dirigentes" (Community Leaders) to join together to provide this treat for the children. A mug of hot chocolate and a slice of panaton (sort of christmas cake) is a huge deal for the children of the poorer areas of Lima. It was also a way to invite the leaders of the various communities to act in solidarity. Funds from The Shared Table assisted this initiative, and the families were very grateful for the gesture of support.

One of the pots of chocolate milk ready for distribution.

Lining up for the chocolatada. Over 2000 children passed through the doors this day. Thankfully Christmas is only once a year!

Ester Laynes, working as an assistant to the Parish Social Worker, Lucia Cuentas, keeps things in order.