I noticed something of great concern during one of my latest visits to meet some visitors and play with the children at RISE (Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza). The four tires on the van are threadbare and dangerous. This is the vehicle that transports the children each weekday to their various schools, takes children to doctors´ appointments, and carries lucky, deserving ones on outings and to special events. And the tires on the small truck that is used to pick up food and other important supplies each week are no better. In addition, both vehicles are badly in need of complete service. I assured Sofia, the driver, that Children´s Shelter of Hope Foundation would put out a plea immediately to raise the necessary funds. Tires in Mexico are expensive, and the van needs special 6-ply ones because of the weight and amount of people it carries (about $200 US each tire). The truck tires will be closer to $100 US each. The servicing for each vehicle can easily be $200 +. So, here is your opportunity to give a really unique gift this holiday season that will make a BIG difference in the safety of these children. Send your donation right away marked “Safety First” and we will send you a photo of a much safer van and truck.