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History
The Mission Service Project [MSP] is an
ongoing commitment of the CNR community
to the Ursuline missions in Brownsville,
Texas and Matamoros, Mexico to bring much
needed assistance to the impoverished populations
on the US/Mexico border.
The people of these communities live in
one-room shacks with limited or no electricity,
running water or indoor plumbing. Poor health
due to inadequate diet, contaminated water,
and lack of medical attention is pervasive.
Education and employment opportunities are
scarce.
Our collaboration with these Ursuline missions
began as part of the celebration of the
College’s centennial celebration in
2003-04. Throughout the centennial year,
Campus Ministry coordinated the efforts
of the entire College to serve these impoverished
communities through fundraising, collections
of needed materials, and hands-on opportunities
at the sites.
Because of these efforts, the College community
was able to purchase seven sewing machines
for the newly formed sewing collectives
in both missions. Singer Sewing Company
donated an additional six machines. Countless
lists of items were donated, including medical
supplies, over the counter medications,
school supplies, toys, clothing, sewing
supplies and materials. Presently, the MSP
committee is researching possible potable
water treatment filters for the families
in Mexico. Members of the divisions and
schools of the College serve on the MSP
committee and meet monthly to continue guiding
the College community in its commitment
to our sisters and brothers on the Tex/Mex
border.
- But the most important part of the
relationship between CNR and the Ursuline
missions is our yearly International Plunge
Service Trip [service
trips]. For the past two years, Campus
Ministry coordinated students and staff
to spend a week with the people of the
missions.
The Future
CNR will continue its commitment to the
people of the border missions.
- Discussion is underway to help market
and sell nursing smocks, aprons, and tote
bags made by the Brownsville sewing collecting,
“La Fuente.”
- The MSP committee is currently researching
seven water treatment filters for possible
use in the Mexico colonia.
- Collections will be undertaken for both
missions when needs arise.
Picture Gallery
To see more Mission Service Project pictures,
click HERE. |
