Ciudad Refugio (City of Refuge) | ciuadadrefugio.org | Testimonial

Colombia, known for its drug cartels and sixty years of civil war and conflict, is bordered by five countries (Panama, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil). This country is a study in contrasts; from the snow covered Andean peaks, to the low Amazon basins. The hospitality of the people is incredible, while at the same time it has a high crime rate. The beauty of its flowers and beaches contrasts the despair and homelessness of so many of its people.

Medellin, the second largest city in Colombia (3 million people), typifies this contrast. It is known for its culture in the area of arts, education, fashion, flowers and festivals.  This is contrasted by the high rate of drug addiction, people (men, women, families, and children) living on its streets and displaced families from the armed conflicts. 

This is where Douglas Calvano felt the Lord calling him to minister in 1993. He was working with a small church in Medellin, when he was awakened one night and felt the Lord told him to feed the homeless. This was the start of taking agua panela (sugar water) and bread to the streets of Medellin to feed the homeless. Since this beginning, it has developed into a ministry which encompasses various outreaches:  homeless shelter, drug rehabilitation center, program for women & children, community outreach and a church.  

The interns and alumni volunteers live in the ministry building, above the programs. Thus, the interns have the opportunity to be involved in many of the varied activities, from working  in the bakery, teaching Bible studies, administration, maintenance, or any other area that fits their calling or needs at the foundation.  In this very hectic, intense and growing ministry they are continually challenged to step out in faith.