Esperanza was originally started by a missionary working for the "shantyman" organization realized there was a tremendous amount of medical need on the west coast of the Island and invited a Christian doctor from Sask. to come and eventually they built a hospital and school up here, ran Bible Studies, etc. (1930s-1940s) Once the hospital was no longer needed because of improved road access, Esperanza become a place of healing in a different kind of way! Families have come to receive counselling and care in a retreat like atmosphere - many come to help them get away from addictions and abuse. Churches and organizations use it for a place to hold retreats and in the summer they have camp programs for kids, teens, and families.
There are approximately six families serving here on staff and connecting with nearby communities. Esperanza also runs a fuel dock and store for commercial fisherman. The grounds are quite large with three lodges, 10-12 homes, many cabins, two dining hall like facilities, green house, and probably more I don't know about! They have their own electric dam with back up diesel generators and use satellite for phone/internet. We have already heard some heart wrenching stories of kids in broken homes and the difficult choices that lay ahead for those about to graduate from high school and are contemplating life away from their family and community.
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