"Every year, La Puente depends on collection at churches for 'migrant kits,'" explains Shirley Bowers, of Hilltop UCC in Parker.
The 'migrant kits' hold hygiene products, washcloth, towel, and sunscreen, commonly used by folks first arriving to the San Luis Valley area. They are looking for work.
Hilltop has sponsored projects such as the collection for more than 20 years, beginning with Jean Sherer's involvement with Advocates for San Luis Valley. More folks were led into this ministry upon visiting La Puente several years ago for an 'interpre-tour.'
Bowers was impressed with the leadership of La Puente. She noticed an ethos which treats each person not as a client but as a guest - whether they are there for a short time, for a 2-year program toward independent living, or long-term.
"This has always been an area with low employment, except for the college, industry, and migrant labor," said Bowers.
She is quick to point out that she is not the only one to have participated in Hilltop's La Puente relationship, with her partner and grandchildren. Church youth have gone to work in a fall gleaning program benefiting area shelters with produce, while adults have supported the food bank, thrift store, Christmas gifts, and many other programs.
La Puente is an official mission partner of the Rocky Mountain Conference of the United Church of Christ. La Puente, which means "The Bridge," also offers 2-year volunteer service placements through the UCC's Partners in Service.
