Social Work   In 1999, the new Archbishop of Lima, Juan Luis Cardinal Cipriani, began an intense, systematic effort to modernize Catholic charities through Caritas Lima. In conjunction with its 113 parishes and a direct jurisdiction of more than four

million inhabitants, the Archdiocese of Lima contributes greatly to improve the lives of those who live in extreme levels of poverty and risk - hundreds of thousands of infants, children, adolescents, abused women, abandoned seniors and disabled and handicapped persons. This is a great responsibility in an emerging country where state-sponsored social assistance programs often lack coordination and adequate financing. Again, even as problems in Lima may appear sometimes overwhelming, they often pale in comparison to those in the provinces. As Church Primate of Peru, Cardinal Cipriani's responsibilities go beyond the boundaries of his large archdiocese in the nation's political, cultural and financial capital. Lima serves as the great example for the rest of the nation and, as such, the successful initiation and management of its social assistance projects and programs have great repercussions throughout Peru. Manchay, truly one of Lima's most economically and topographically disadvantaged areas, offers an example of comprehensive social assistance provided by the Archdiocese of Lima, through Caritas and local Espiritu Santo Parish under the guidance of very active Father Jose Chuquillanqui. : Parish Education and Vocation Center:  What began as a single nursery and kindergarten evolved into a parrochial elementary, middle and high school with over 700 students (and growing). Additionally, vocational schools teaching computer sciences (supported by IBM of Peru), cosmetics and hair dressing, pastry and bread baking, seamstress and tailoring, carpentry, electrical, mechanical and automotive trades are offered for both adolescents and adults. More than 700 inhabitants of Manchay are being trained at all times in the vocational schools. More than 350 children of up to five years of age from working mothers attend four kindergarten nurseries, which offer early social stimulation and balanced diets. Another two nurseries are being planned. Even The American School of Lima - which was introduced to Manchay social programs by our foundation - conducts an English language "school" as part of its international baccalaureate community service program.  Medical Centers: The Archdiocese of Lima manages two medical dispensaries and the recent "Carlos Hedreen" clinic which provide for the healthcare needs of Manchay's thousands of economically disadvantaged inhabitants. The healthcare centers keep medical records and statistics of thousands of schoolchildren and others from the area. All services are provided at very low cost basis (and often free of charge). Each of the medical centers is supervised by a religious order of sisters: Missionary Sisters of San Vicente de Paul, Miyasaky (Japan) and Maria Dolorosa (Mexico). Meals: There are six parishioner kitchens serving hot meals daily for more than 1,500 children, adults and elderly in permanent facilities, also supervised by religious orders of sisters and Espiritu Santo Parish. Senior Day Care Center: More than 150 senior adults are attended daily with activities, company and meals. Special Programs: Human rights education and awareness programs are being conducted by Caritas and Espiritu Parish personnel, as is care and rehabilitation for physically and morally abused children, adolescents and women. Victims of abuse are given sanctuary and counseling. Manchay's programs and successes serve as examples for other parishes in Lima and beyond. In view of scarce economic resources available from and/or provided by the state, the Archdiocese of Lima is providing much needed social assistance to the inhabitants within its area of church jurisdiction. All of this costs a lot of money and the Archdiocese of Lima must constantly find ways to  subsidize and finance its social programs and projects. We are pleased with and thankful for the financial generosity of individuals, corporations and institutions in the United States. They are truly providing invaluable humanitarian help to the children and families of Peru."