Idalia Ruiz; My Story

I am going to talk a little about my history with Project Minnesota in León. My name is Emidonia Idalia Ruiz Moran. My parents are farmers and I am proud of my campesino origin. I am a single mother with six children, three boys and three girls. I have been working as a cook for the local hospital for the past twenty years, but at the same time I have also served as volunteer for PML. I started as a volunteer for PML in 1985 and five years later became part of the support and advisory council. When I was introduced to the project, it was out of need for my neighbourhood.

In 1985, with the help of PML, we were able to begin to address some major problems. When we started, our families did not have housing in which to live. It was a benediction to get to know this project for our people, because without the help of our North American brothers and sisters, I do not believe that any of us would be able to have a dignified house in which to raise our children. For this, I will always be thankful to Project Minnesota. I give thanks from the bottom of my heart for the bond that they have cultivated, because without the help of NGO’s in Nicaragua, the small communities would not be able to move forward.

I continue to support and help Project Minnesota and Gettysburg. Further, it makes me feel good to be a part of PML’s efforts, because the support that these communities receive is vital to their survival. The only way that we can continue to address the vital needs of Nicaragua is through solidarity of will, and the help of our North American family.

I have achieved the fulfilment of so many as a volunteer for this project, that for me, it has become a part of my life. I care so much about this organization and the people who come to Nicaragua, because God is love and all of us should find love in this life.

--Idalia