Recognizing a need is the first step in developing an outreach program. Employing understanding, compassion and an abundance of God’s love, Principe de Paz Inner City Outreach Ministries (PDPICOM) in San Antonio successfully embraces neighborhood children growing up in a challenging environment.

“You find these children and these families are not much different than your own,” said Pastor Santiago Heredia of working with the kids from Casiano Homes, a public housing project near Principe de Paz United Methodist Church.

Volunteers serving PDPICOM knocked on doors to rally children for the first Sidewalk Church School in 1995. They gathered in a courtyard surrounded by signs of poverty. In fact, walking past abandoned cars riddled with bullet holes and ignoring evidence of drug abuse littering public restrooms has become commonplace for the young residents of Casiano Homes.

“These little ones deserve and need to be ministered to,” said Director Abel Vega, Jr.  He sees this ministry as an example of the Wesley principle in action and an extension of the Bishops’ Initiative on Children and Poverty.

Building upon success of the Sidewalk Church School, several other programs have blossomed during the past few years.

The L.I.F.E. (Learning is for Everyone) After School Program and Children’s Summer Academy thrive despite the modest means of the church itself. Along with a health care ministry, children’s choir and “camps” designed to keep the youngsters engaged during school holidays, PDPICOM serves more eager learners than ever.

About 30 children participate in Sidewalk Church School each week now, while as many as 60 can be expected every day for after school and summer sessions. Staff members who teach these kids frequently receive more than a salary through their interaction.

“It’s much more than a job, it’s like they’re your own,” Mark Gonzales, staff leader, said when asked about teaching these at-risk children. “It’s hard not to love the kids and want to be with them all the time.”

Principe de Paz UMC relies on assistance beyond its budget to continue this ministry. Along with a three-year grant funded by the Texas Methodist Foundation, the church receives assistance from the San Antonio Housing Authority, other churches and additional grant resources.

Donors and volunteers who contribute to these programs are “making an eternal investment” by helping a community in need, Vega said. “Every cent literally counts.” – Fall, 2001

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