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An Unyielding Ally for Children in Need

For over 37 years, the Tres Islas Orphanage Fund has transformed the lives of thousands of children, from newborns to young adults, in six orphanage homes in Mazatlán, Mexico. Thanks to your incredible generosity, our 501(c)(3) non-profit organization provides fresh food bi-weekly, ensuring these children have the nourishment they need. Together, we have impacted countless lives and created brighter futures for these children.

As our organization grows, we recognize the importance of welcoming new donors to carry our mission forward. Your support has been invaluable, and we hope you will help us spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues. With more hands and hearts, we can continue to provide and expand our services. There are many ways to get involved, from volunteering for trips to sharing our story and needs with your network.

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Mexico faces a critical situation with its orphaned and abandoned children. An estimated 1.8 million children live in over 700 orphanages, often placed there due to poverty, family violence, or lack of support systems—even when they have living parents. Despite the growing need, the Mexican government allocates less than 2% of its budget to child protection, leaving many orphanages underfunded and children vulnerable to hunger and neglect.

In Mazatlán, however, the situation is brighter thanks to the efforts of the Tres Islas Orphanage Fund, a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organization. For over 35 years, Tres Islas has provided vital resources to local orphanages, including food, school supplies, uniforms, medical care, and facility improvements. With support from a passionate partner, The Gems of Mazatlán—a Canadian charitable fund—the organization has helped maintain and renovate orphanages, ensuring safe and nurturing environments for the children. Through consistent donations and a dedicated volunteer network, Tres Islas has given these children a better chance at a bright future.

Our Story

The fund’s story began in the mid-1980s when reporter Donelle Manton visited Mazatlán to photograph local children. One day, in a local restaurant, she met a waitress named Gaudelia Cruz, who showed her kindness by offering a free salad to the lone American visitor. This simple gesture sparked a friendship that led Donelle to ask about local orphanages. Gaudelia introduced her to Orfanatorio Mazatlán, a home founded in 1902 during a bubonic plague epidemic that left many children orphaned.What they discovered was heartbreaking. The orphanage was severely under-resourced, with only eggs, tortillas, and beans in the pantry. Broken windows, poor drainage, and tattered clothes reflected the children’s dire circumstances. Deeply moved, Donelle and Gaudelia immediately bought food and supplies. When Donelle returned home, she began selling her photographs to fund more aid for the orphanage. She visited Mazatlán four times a year, bringing supplies, and eventually founded the Tres Islas Orphanage Fund with a promise that 100% of donations would directly benefit the children.

That promise remains the heart of the fund today. Donations go toward food, education, clothing, medical needs, and upgrades to the orphanages. The fund relies on dedicated volunteers, including its board members, treasurer, and social media team, while donors support Gaudelia's essential work on the ground. Early on, Donelle established a transparent system for donations. Gaudelia purchased supplies locally, retained receipts, and ensured accountability. This approach continues, with donors welcome to visit Mazatlán and see the impact of their contributions during annual mission weeks.From its modest beginnings supporting two orphanages, Tres Islas now assists six homes, including FloreSer, a sanctuary for girls who have survived violence and abuse. The fund serves over 160 children, entirely supported by generous donors like you.

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Our Story

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Get Involved Today!

Your support can change lives. Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, or spread the word, there are countless ways to make a difference with the Tres Islas Orphanage Fund. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to our mission of providing hope and opportunity to orphaned children in Mazatlán, Mexico. Join us in our journey to create positive change and transform lives. Together, we can make a profound impact that lasts a lifetime. Contact us now to learn more about how you can get involved!

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