Cuernavaca is a city in the central part of Mexico , 50 miles south of Mexico City .
Known as the “city of eternal spring.” The weather makes outdoor markets possible
throughout the year. Here the people sell fruits and vegetables, crafts, and everything
else from can openers to DVD’s.

But most tourists are not aware of the widespread poverty that exists in Cuernavaca .
There are many very poor areas in the city. A family might live in a two room shack
with no windows, with only a curtain for a door. They might not have running water
or indoor bathrooms. A child might be selling crafts on the street to help the family survive or, washing windshields while the cars are stopped at the light. Some of these
children do not go to school, because their families need the income the children earn.
Some cannot afford the shoes, uniforms, and school supplies that are required.

In spring of 2005, the Sisters of St. Francis of Tiffin, Ohio, gave permission for Sister Margaret Slowick to live in Cuernavaca and begin to develop a ministry there where the need was greatest. Two years later, she founded the Cuernavaca Children's Mission. Working on the premise that education is the best way to break the cycle of poverty, they mentor children who live in extremely poor conditions. In addition to providing food, clothing, school supplies, medicines, and vitamins, the mission aims to provide each child with the individual attention they need to do well in school. Working in conjunction with the child's teachers and parents, they provide tutoring and other forms of assistance, especially for children whose parents are illiterate and unable to help their children themselves.

If you or someone you know is interested in the work of Sister Margaret or would like to
sponsor a child please visit: http://cuernavacakids.wordpress.com for more information.