Refugio de Esperanza

Since 1987, Refugio de Esperanza has been a place of hope and transformation for children, youth, and adults with disabilities in Pucallpa, Peru. Through education, vocational training, and rehabilitation, individuals have received the support they need to enter society with confidence, independence, and economic sustainability…all while experiencing the love of God.

Today, Refugio de Esperanza serves over 500 children and young adults, offering:

• Inclusive Education: A property with Preschool, Primary School, Special Education, and Secondary School programs. Over 60% of students have a physical and/or mental disability.
• Rehabilitation services: Access to physical therapy for the Special Education students.
• Boarding programs: A safe home for students from remote villages or challenging backgrounds.
• Spiritual formation: In partnership with the Refugio de Esperanza Evangelical Church, the boarding students and the Refugio families participate in worship services, discipleship programs, and pastoral care.

Refugio de Esperanza was founded by Pastor Victor Manuel Izquierdo Lora and his late wife, Ana Mendoza Lopez. As a polio survivor, Pastor Victor has a deep understanding of the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. They started quite humbly with six friends who were also affected by polio. With unwavering faith, but no money, they lived in tents and grew corn and yucca. They had no water, no bathroom, and no lights. Each year, they went by foot, by boat, and by car through river towns and villages looking for young people with disabilities who wanted to work and learn. The first year, they had six students. Through God’s provision, Refugio has grown into a thriving community that now serves hundreds.

As an evangelical Peruvian Association, Refugio is a vibrant, joy-filled community that shares the Gospel and provides vital education to some of the most marginalized individuals in Pucallpa. Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, through community service projects, or on field trips, every aspect of Refugio’s work centers on introducing young people to Jesus and equipping them for a bright future.