Project Profile

Base City: Matamoros, Mexico

Status: Select a Date Open Open

Age: 14-20

Cost: Select a Date TBD TBD

Project Overview:

Matamoros is located on the southern bank of the Rio Grande, directly across from Brownsville, Texas. It is the largest city in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. The presence of maquiladoras, which are assembly plants run by the U.S. or other countries, accounts for a rapidly growing population as workers migrate from the interior to the border region looking for better jobs. Most will settle on a small plot of land, building a makeshift house for their family in a colonia, or neighborhood. Many will not find work or will be grossly underpaid. Because Mexico is the primary route for illegal drugs trafficked into the United States, drug-related violence has increased dramatically in the area. Local police suffer from a lack of funds and training, and the judicial system is overworked and inefficient. Matamoros has the same key sustainability challenges that are common throughout many Mexican border towns. Air pollution problems have increased with the rise of the maquiladora industry, sewage is not properly treated, there is an inadequate water supply for the number of people living there, and the obvious public security issues.

Ministry Description:

Your team will play a key role in our efforts to bring the Gospel of Christ to this remote area through relational evangelism and simple relationship building. Some of the communities you will reach are known and frequented by only locals; forsaken and forgotten by the outside world.

You will participate in various outreaches like child ministry, feedings programs for the poor and hungry, visitations to a local orphanage, and sports evangelism. You may also have the chance to reach out through music, preaching, nursing, or other practical skills.