Jan Hopke-Almer and Lisa Richardson
This April, the Vista Mission Outreach Program will begin collecting funds to purchase school supplies and backpacks for students from our sister church in Agua Prieta, Mexico. This program has been a huge success over the past 20-plus years. We began by sponsoring 62 students, growing to our maximum of 160 students in 2017. Twenty-two students have graduated from college and four are currently enrolled in college with scholarships from the Roche Fund. Other adult students have completed their GED and/or graduated from technical college. Based on the success of this program, more families are providing school supplies for their children. Last year we received 50 elementary age students’ photos for school supplies sponsorship. We had enough funds to provide school supplies and backpacks for an additional 28 students in junior/senior high schools or adults attending college/technical schools.
Pastor Gela, from Fuente de Vida Church said the following in her thank you letter to Vista Church members:
“Donation of backpacks and school supplies: Thanks to your support, dozens of children were able to start their school year equipped with the tools they need to learn and grow. These backpacks carry not just supplies but also hope and encouragement for a brighter future. Your generosity not only meets material needs but also strengthens the faith and hope of those who receive these blessings.”
If you would like to make a donation for the purchase of school supplies/backpacks for the 2025-26 school year, please make your check for $35 per student to Vista UMC with “AP school supplies” in the memo line and mail to the church. Any amount of donation is greatly appreciated to support these students. If you have any questions please contact Jan Hopke-Almer at 520-818-2504 or Lisa Richardson at 949-525-5943.
We also welcome you to worship with us each Sunday at 10 a.m. Vista de la Montana United Methodist Church is located at 3001 E. Miravista Lane, on the west side of Oracle Rd. just south of the Golder Ranch intersection. The church phone number is 520-825-1985.