Nestled in the heart of Santa Teresita, a dream that has been years in the making has finally come to life. On June 15, 2024, the Nazareth Orphanage (OFNO) unveiled the Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús dormitory, a beacon of hope and shelter for 50 young girls. This momentous occasion coincided with the 125th anniversary of the Sisters of the Sacred Heart and the Poor, making the celebration all the more poignant.

The day began with a Mass that filled the air with a spirit of reverence and gratitude, followed by a Dedication Ceremony that echoed with the hopes and dreams of a brighter future. Fourteen sisters from the Mother House in Morelia, Mexico, graced the event, their presence deepening the spiritual resonance of the day. The children of the orphanage, dressed in charming handmade pink dresses and crisp white shirts with black ties, performed with an infectious joy that warmed the hearts of the over 150 attendees.

The new dormitory, now a safe haven for these young girls, is more than just a building—it's a symbol of what can be achieved when a community comes together with compassion and purpose. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the "50 Beds for 50 Girls" campaign, the dormitory is fully equipped with beds, mattresses, bedding, closets, and even personalized plaques, making each space a true home for its residents. This two-story structure, which also houses two sisters, stands ready to welcome the girls into a new chapter of their lives.

Father Kelly, who has been a steadfast supporter of Nazareth Orphanage since 1996, expressed his deep gratitude: "Witnessing the joy and gratitude of these children today, seeing their new home, is truly heartwarming and a testament to the power of community and compassion. It's been a long journey, and to see it come to fruition is nothing short of miraculous."

But the journey doesn’t end here. OFNO is now setting its sights on the next project—a new dining room and kitchen—to further enhance the living conditions for these children. With a fundraising goal of $150,000, the organization is calling on the continued generosity of its supporters to make this vision a reality.

As we celebrate this incredible milestone, the call to action remains strong. Contributions can be made online at [www.ofno.org](http://www.ofno.org) or by check to OFNO, 6797 Encelia Place, Carlsbad, CA 92011. Together, we can continue to build a future filled with hope, one brick at a time.