Because SIFAT works globally and in our own country, we are answering each question in two parts. Ecuador represents one of our global projects, which have many similar needs. In the slums in the Belt of Misery around Quito, most basic needs are scarce or nonexistent. Mothers have to work and leave their small children unattended on the streets with gangs, drug dealers and traffic. They need preschool and after school programs for at-risk children and youth. SIFAT graduates also work with these children’s mothers to teach parenting, micro enterprise and life skills, as well as providing counseling and help finding housing. In the U.S., 46.7 million people were living in poverty in 2014—14.8% of the population. Additionally Mother Teresa pointed out to us, the poverty of the west is often deeper than that of the developing countries. She was referring to our spiritual poverty. American youth are disillusioned and looking for meaning and purpose. And still in America, children are hungry.