To: The Parishioners of Saint Irenaeus

A BIG THANK YOU FROM OCIMA!

The food we packed last month arrived in Guatemala! And it is no small acomplishment!

Through your generosity, love and compassion for our brothers and sisters in Guatemala,

you provided an additional 108, 000 meals to a population that is suffering from a poor

economy and failing crops. The parishioners of St. Irenaeus raised the bulk of the funds

needed to purchase the food and OCIMA only had to divert a little over $1,000 to

ensure that our friends in Morales and Santa Elena received another 500 boxes of food.

This is so important. Not only is the food critical, but there are a number of projects OCIMA continues to support in Guatemala and Ecuador. Without OCIMA'S help, certain groups of people would simply fall by the wayside. For example, one organization working in the Morales area (where the Nutritional center is) only provides help to children under age six. I think you've heard from Sue Hug about the young boy who has been suffering from severe malnutrition. His name is Christian and we've been helping him with the Kids Against Hunger food and special medical attention. Can you imagine a nine-year old boy who is the size of a two-year old? His eyes begging for help? And not being able to help him simply because he's too old at the age of nine?

Because we're there, we see it first hand. We also rely on the judgment of those who live and work there full-time. We don't need someone to write up a report to tell us these children exist and can be helped. OCIMA is composed of all volunteers who knew Father Nick and actively participated in his work in Guatemala and Ecuador. Father Nick entrusted us to continue his work in a way that reflects his goals, and that's what we're striving to do. I know Father Nick was counting on all of you too and I'm sure he's smiling down on the Parish of St. Irenaues! He must be so proud of the Youth Group- your enthusiasm and compassion for others. Your efforts show how a small group can have such a positive impact on the lives of so many. Look at Father Nick and how many lives he touched! In your own way, you're doing the same. I think Father Nick would agree with Mother Teresa when she said:

"It is not the magnitude of our actions but the amount of love that is put into them that matters."

Father Nick started out by doing little things in Ecuador, but his love and compassion was great. It was like a magnet. It is Father Nick's love and compassion that is the foundation of OCIMA and we thank you for making this foundation even stronger.

Maria Curreri

OCIMA, President