Casa Ben (Cozumel)
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Bringing Hope and Transformation to Cozumel
ImpactHope has partnered with Casa Ben, an initiative of hope and transformation nestled in the heart of Cozumel. Founded by Kevin and Faye Kitzman, along with Julia Maria Fuentes Castanon, Casa Ben is more than just a project—it’s a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and faith. Casa Ben’s purpose is to bring Jesus to the community in Cozumel, Mexico, by providing food, clothing, prayer, and support to those in need. The project aims to meet the physical and spiritual needs of marginalized individuals.
About The Location & History
In Cozumel, many individuals and families struggle with poverty, with limited access to basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare. Casa Ben seeks to address these pressing needs, starting with the most vulnerable and marginalized members of the community. Plans are underway for expansion to Victoria, Mexico, possibly by the end of August.
At Casa Ben, the team believes in a holistic approach to poverty alleviation—one that encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Recognizing that each person they encounter is unique, with their own story and struggles, their approach is personalized, tailored to meet the specific needs of those they serve.
Who Are We Partnering With?
ImpactHope is privileged to partner with Kevin and Faye Kitzman, individuals whose unwavering dedication and passion have been instrumental in driving our mission forward. With hearts filled with compassion and a steadfast commitment to serving others, Kevin and Faye bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our endeavors. Their visionary leadership, coupled with a deep-rooted faith in God’s guiding hand, inspires all who work alongside them. Together, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need, one act of kindness at a time.
Kevin has been involved in ministry for over 30 years, extending the hospitality of his home to unchurched individuals. Casa Ben represents an extension of this commitment, with Kevin’s background in music and outreach serving as foundational elements. Faye, originally from Prince Edward Island, has a passion for cooking and a heart for serving others. Casa Ben is a reflection of her lifelong dedication to ministry and her desire to share the love of Jesus through practical acts of service.
What Is The Initiative?
The overarching goal of Casa Ben is simple yet profound: to meet the needs of those in dire straits and to bring out the very best in each person encountered. Through their actions, they aim to instill hope, restore dignity, and empower individuals to reclaim their lives.
Currently, Casa Ben’s efforts are focused on several key areas:
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Feeding the Hungry: The team provides nutritious meals to individuals living in impoverished conditions, including those without a roof over their heads. Despite limited resources, their commitment to serving the best possible food remains unwavering.
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Community Outreach: Casa Ben is deeply embedded in the local community, working closely with partners to identify and address pressing needs. Whether distributing food hampers during times of crisis or offering support to vulnerable populations, they strive to be a source of hope for all.
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Approach to Long-term Sustainability: Recognizing the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty, Casa Ben is passionate about offering cooking classes to tourists. Proceeds support their initiatives, including a proposed meals-on-wheels program for seniors. Casa Ben aims to become self-sustaining through initiatives like establishing a kitchen facility that can generate income by offering cooking classes and culinary services to tourists. Additionally, training locals in various skills enable them to secure employment opportunities.
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Future Vision: Looking ahead, Casa Ben has ambitious expansion plans. From establishing a treatment facility for women trapped in various addictions and creating a safe haven for their children, their vision extends far beyond Cozumel. They dream of a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
Impact Stories and Testimonials
Transformation Through Love and Care:
One of Casa Ben’s most compelling narratives involves the transformation of individuals who were once marginalized and hopeless. Through consistent love, care, and practical support, many have experienced profound changes in their lives. For example, Julia, the project’s cooking helper, went from being a bitter and angry person to someone filled with joy and purpose. Her involvement with Casa Ben not only provided her with the opportunity to serve others but also led to a personal spiritual transformation.
Physical and Emotional Healing
Casa Ben has witnessed remarkable instances of physical and emotional healing. One testimonial recounts a young boy named Stefan who broke his arm. Through prayer and support from Casa Ben, Stefan experienced miraculous healing, alleviating the need for further medical intervention. Additionally, individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues have found solace and comfort through the project’s holistic approach, which addresses both their physical and emotional needs.
Overcoming Social Stigma
Casa Ben challenges societal stigmas and prejudices by extending compassion and acceptance to all individuals, regardless of their background or struggles. Many testimonies highlight how Casa Ben offers a safe space for individuals who have been rejected or marginalized by society. By fostering a culture of inclusion and unconditional love, Casa Ben provides a beacon of hope for those who feel overlooked or forgotten.
Join Casa Ben in Making a Difference
Casa Ben cannot do this work alone. Casa Ben requires financial support to sustain its operations, including funding for infrastructure development, such as acquiring land and building facilities, and ongoing expenses like food provision and staffing. The project relies on the generosity and support of individuals to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering time, or spreading the word about their mission, every bit counts.
