about ndv
We are a nonprofit organization focused on scholarships and microlending located in Newton, Massachusetts,
and Coatepec, Veracruz, Mexico.
Niños de Veracruz (NdV) is an all-volunteer 501(c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 2003 and registered in 2005, providing scholarships and zero-interest microloans in the city of Coatepec and the state of Veracruz, Mexico.
Our history is special. Founded in February 2003 by Lasell students Jeffrey Peguero, Sandra Orellana, Vanessa Sollivan, Katrina Hester, Zamanta Monterosa, Lesley Bautista, Professor Stephanie Athey, and Professor Maria del Refugio Lopez Cruz of the Universidad Veracruzana-Xalapa in Mexico. We continue to run entirely on volunteer labor. Every contribution makes a direct impact in Mexico. With deep appreciation, we recognize Prof Helen Alcala who first envisioned Lasell students in Mexico and made it happen. We are grateful to receive the ongoing support of Lasell University faculty,
staff, alum, and the greater Boston community.
Scholarships
NdV offers renewable scholarship support for 6th–college and fulfills special needs for children in 1st-6th grade (e.g., ear and eye surgeries, eye glasses, orthopedic shoes, etc.). After 6th grade, children of farm workers often drop out to work in sugar cane fields. Costs of shoes, uniforms, and books increase. Parents earn little more than $6.00 a day and face the impossible choice between food, education, and the child’s earning potential.
microloans
Farm worker families borrow and repay small loans for needs including medical emergencies, basic shelter, and small businesses. NdV offers zero-interest loans of $50-$1,000.
ndv by the numbers (as of 2020)
Let's see what the Lasell chapter has done!
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$131,000 raised in 17 years
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3 university grads - all scholarship recipients since grade 7
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410 children’s scholarships x $200 = $82,000
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A $35,000 revolving fund dispersing small no-interest loans
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$4,000 in grant support for students’ eye and ear surgeries, orthopedic shoes, library books, corrective lenses
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6,600 lbs. of clothing donated and delivered
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4,000 pairs of prescription lenses donated and delivered
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300 free eye exams and fittings with free prescription lenses
NdV was created by and remains organized fully on volunteer support. We welcome you to join our forces and attend or sponsor the Gala to be part of something truly great! To attend our Gala, simply buy your tickets today. If you wish to learn more about what we do or other ways to contribute, please get in touch with us.