By Jessica Muñoz, Communication Commission, Ecuador (Province of Ecuador)

On September 3, the San Juan Eudes School Support Center, a direct ministry of the Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd and located in the province of Esmeraldas in Ecuador, reopened its doors after major renovations thanks to the support of the Taiwan-based charitable organization TX Foundation (TzuXing – 慈行基金會) .

The reopening brought together children, families, educators, volunteers, sisters, and partners-in-mission, marking the start of a new school year.

The facilities were modernized to provide more functional and stimulating spaces—from classrooms and libraries to recreational areas—fostering creativity, active learning, and collaboration among students.

The event took place at a very special time as we look forward to celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, 2025, reaffirming the Congregation’s commitment to promoting the rights of girls and boys, and to the integral development of every student.

During the ceremony, Sister Nélida, the Center’s coordinator, expressed:

“Today, our school looks renewed, beautiful and radiant, full of life and light. All of this inspires our dedication and mission, which we carry out with the children and their families in our beloved province of Esmeraldas—perhaps one of the most forgotten places in Ecuador, but not for those of us who believe that every human being can be an agent of change and transformation. Today we also renew our prayers, affection, and eternal gratitude to the TX Foundation of Taiwan, and our commitment of service and love of neighbor to the beneficiaries of the mission”.

During the reopening, a commemorative plaque was unveiled, and a certificate was presented in honor of Dr. Cheng-Ta Hsieh, gratefully received by Freda Miriklis on behalf of the foundation.”

However, the real stars of the day were our boys and girls, who presented a cultural performance showcasing the richness of Esmeraldas, with traditional dances and colorful costumes that filled the ceremony with joy. This performance allowed attendees to appreciate the region’s cultural identity and the creativity of the children, strengthening their sense of belonging and pride in their roots.

Additionally, some students shared their feelings about the center. Andrea, for example, expressed her gratitude and excitement for the renovated spaces and the support she has received:

“I am very grateful to the TX Foundation of Taiwan and the Sisters of the Good Shepherd for giving me the opportunity to learn and grow as a person. Every time we arrive at the center, we are welcomed with affection, and that motivates us to give our best.”

Thanks to the support of the TX Foundation, this project has been able to guarantee a safe and stimulating environment where children can grow in an integral way—academically, humanly, and spiritually. The international collaboration, together with local commitment, shows how the union of hearts can transform lives and communities.

The Congregation’s San Juan Eudes School Support Center in Ecuador, is a living example of how dedication, solidarity, and a shared mission make an impact in the lives of children, offering them a space where their dreams and talents can flourish.

This place not only educates, but also cultivates human and spiritual values, strengthening hope and showing that, together, we can build a more just and promising future.