For more than 25 years, Orphan Grain Train (OGT) has walked alongside Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM) in a partnership marked by generosity, consistency, and deep care for communities on both sides of the border. Their support continues to make it possible for YLM to distribute millions of dollars of in-kind donations into the hands of people in need, becoming a steady stream of provision year after year.
This spring, several semi-trailers packed with donations of clothing, hygiene kits, furniture, and even a full pallet of potatoes arrived at YLM, with several more scheduled to arrive throughout the summer. Items donated to OGT, sorted and packed by their many volunteers, are directed through nonprofit organizations dedicated to bringing relief to hurting communities, not only the communities YLM serves, but communities around the world.
Their continued commitment to share Christ’s love with those who are suffering is what makes it possible for YLM to bring relief to thousands of families living in poverty throughout El Paso, Ciudad Juárez, and Chihuahua. Through these donations, families receive practical help, congregations are equipped to serve their neighbors, and opportunities are created to share the hope found in Christ.
Their history with YLM reaches far beyond this year’s deliveries. Over the past decades, OGT has delivered bicycles, thousands of pounds of potatoes and beans, medical supplies, furniture, clothing, and countless other resources, strengthening households, supporting local congregations, and expanding ministry opportunities throughout the Borderland.
Time and again, these donations have arrived at just the right moment, becoming tangible reminders of God’s provision and answers to prayers families had not yet spoken aloud. Through every shipment, OGT’s volunteers and supporters have played a direct role in sharing Christ’s love with people facing hardship, uncertainty, and need alongside YLM.
Rooted in a shared commitment to serve Christ by serving others, the partnership between OGT and YLM continues to flourish. As needs grow and new opportunities emerge, YLM remains deeply grateful for this faithful relationship and the countless lives touched through it. Looking ahead, YLM is excited to further strengthen this partnership, sending Mariachi San Pablo and Director of Operations, Karla Gonzalez, to the OGT Conference this September in Norfolk, Nebraska.
Hosted at OGT’s Distribution Center, the gathering will provide an opportunity to celebrate God’s work, build relationships with ministry partners from across the country, and share how this long-standing partnership continues bringing hope, relief, and the Gospel to families throughout the Borderland.
We thank God for the faithful supporters, volunteers, and leaders of OGT, whose generosity continues making a difference in the lives of countless people. Together, we look forward to the opportunities ahead as we continue serving our neighbors, caring for those in need, and sharing the love of Christ through Word and Deed.
