Life can be full of surprises — both good and bad. Just ask Antonio.
Antonio’s life took a turn for the worst when he was sentenced in 2017 to seven years in juvenile detention. He felt like he lost all hope at that moment in time. Little did he know that his life was about to receive another unexpected turn.
From the moment Antonio stepped foot in a detention center in El Salvador, his life changed for the better. It all started when he was approached by an Orphan Helpers team member who told him about Jesus. He began to study the Word of God, attend the morning devotionals, and was baptized.
After giving his life to Jesus, he began to make serious decisions and work on his education. He completed the Success Academy, received his high school diploma, and earned a certificate from a baking and pastry course at the center.
Antonio was a different person from the one who entered the center two years earlier. Now, he was a respected young man with a future.
At the beginning of this year, Antonio was granted early release from the center for good behavior. The release gave him the opportunity to fulfill his dream of becoming a chef.
When the Orphan Helpers Success Coaches followed up with him recently, they were pleased to learn that he was studying online at the Pan American Academy of Culinary Arts (APAC). APAC, based in New York is a culinary school that seeks to offer professional development opportunities to the Hispanic community.
“I’m excited to be accepted into this school. I plan to work very hard to complete this program so one day soon I can become a professional chef, provide financial help for my family, and lift them out of poverty,” Antonio says. “I’m extremely thankful to the Lord for giving me more than I could have asked or imagined. I appreciate all the help of Orphan Helpers and everyone who supports this organization. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”