La Posada staff and clients gather before the shelter’s flag pole to recite the Pledge of Allegiance on Friday, July 4.

As Americans gathered all across the country to celebrate 4th of July, 19 clients representing eight different countries honored their new home with a celebration at La Posada Providencia.

Clients gathered in front of the shelter’s flagpole to recite the Pledge of Allegiance before taking part in a traditionally “American BBQ.”

“When I stood with all the other clients saluting the U.S. flag, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, I thought it was an honor,” one client remarked.

Another client was also brimming with excitement.

“It was a fantastic and beautiful celebration all day,” the client said. “I am so grateful to God that I am in the legal process to become a citizen of such great a country.”

La Posada staff is no stranger to the sentiment of patriotism and love for the U.S. that is felt amongst our clients. After having served nearly 8,000 immigrants since our inception, we have seen many individuals and families arrive at the shelter with no money, limited or no English and no familiarity with the U.S. legal system, job requirements, and other limitations.

While our clients are in the legal process of seeking asylum, residency or some other legal alternative, La Posada staff helps them by offering ESL classes, cultural immersion lessons, job readiness programs and many other services that help clients become familiar with the values, customs and social practices of the U.S.

Many of our clients go on to become outstanding residents and citizens of this country, moving on to pursue an education and careers in different fields.

All of this is only possible thanks to the hard work of our staff and volunteers and the support of all our donors.

Thank you for making a new beginning in America possible for our clients.

God bless America.