Since 2016 we have helped hundreds improve their lives, and take steps out of the cycle of poverty.
Breaking the Chains of Poverty
Feeding
We can take their mind off some of the day to day concerns and help put food on the table. That way people can focus on getting into a long term job rather than being stuck in the cycle of day laborer jobs and panhandling for what is needed today.
Education
Providing supplies, uniforms, and tutoring so that the next generation can escape the poverty cycle as well as help adults become literate and get their GED so they can find more opportunities.
Job Opportunities
We can create small jobs. Teach marketable skills. And help people through trade schools and buy them their first set of tools. Whatever they need to unlock the door to a better life.
Puente has worked since 2016 to be the bridge between worlds. Connecting those who have, to those who need. We are focused on helping one specific area of San Jose. An ever changing neighborhood full of Nicaraguans escaping terrible circumstances. It is called Los Pinos because of the pine trees in the area. In reality, it is a ghetto of tin shacks with dirt floors and little sanitation.
Ever growing. Ever changing. Dark, smelly, dirty, and hopeless.
We support a community trapped in a cycle of poverty, addressing not only economic struggles but also mental, psychological, and sociological challenges. It's like being in a room with multiple locks on the outside, and we provide keys to help break free.
By offering food, we enable focus on job search instead of daily sustenance worries. We educate the younger generation for better life opportunities, teach literacy and GED attainment, create jobs, and instill spiritual truths to enhance self-worth. Our efforts bring hope and achievable dreams to a situation currently devoid of them.
STAFF
Andrew Butz: Founder
Andrew's journey in Costa Rica began as a Spanish student in 2008, marking the inception of his missionary career. With a solid grasp of the language and lessons learned from his mistakes, he now channels his efforts into helping underprivileged individuals break free from poverty, recognize their value in Christ, and stride toward a brighter future.
While he could pursue this mission anywhere, Andrew believes God led him to Costa Rica, specifically to the small town of San Felipe in the impoverished suburb of Alajuelita, near San Jose. It was here that he crossed paths with Efrain Campos, a friend and colleague. We see their connection as a divine arrangement, as Efrain was on the brink of burnout from tirelessly aiding those who could never repay, while Andrew was seeking a more fitting mission. Together, they became a perfect match to better serve the people of San Felipe.
Efraim Campos: Pastor
Efrain Campos Briones was born in Nicoya, Guanacazta, Costa Rica on February 24th 1966, and has been a pastor for 30+ years. He is the second oldest of 12 brothers and sisters! He grew up in a humble, Christian home, where his mother was the primary Christian influence in his life. He became a Christ follower in 1980 and was baptized in 1981. After studying Bible for a few years he started pastoring local marginalized congregations in 1988. He graduated with a theological degree from the “Instituto Bíblico Centroamericano” in 1995. He also graduated with a degree in Sociology in 2006. He has been working in San Felipe, Alajuelita since 2007. He was married in 1990 and today has 2 daughters, 1 son in-law, and 2 grandsons.