Our Homes: NPH Nicaragua

Nicaragua Facts

Area:
50,336 square miles – slightly smaller than New York state

Population:
6,676,948 (2024 est.)

Languages:
Spanish (official) 95.3%, Miskito 2.2%, Mestizo of the Caribbean coast 2%

Issues:
One of the poorest countries in Latin America; earthquakes,
volcanoes, landslides, extremely susceptible to hurricanes

NPH Nicaragua at a Glance

Opened:
May 10, 1994

Location:
Casa Padre Wasson is 45 minutes southwest of Managua in Jinotepe

NPH Operates:
School (grades K – 10), vocational workshops, housing for university students, medical clinic, farm

Community Programs include an academic scholarship program, meals and healthcare for children/youth in the community, NPH OneFamily which provides services to families in need, and the Family Growing and Good Samaritan programs

2024 Impact

728 children and adults supported

118 local people employed

57 K – University graduates

Did you know?

Originally, children age 8 and older lived on Ometepe Island and those under age 7 lived in San Jorge on the mainland. An earthquake and volcanic activity on the island caused a temporary evacuation of the home in August 2005, and due to ongoing safety concerns, new property was acquired. The new site, Casa Padre Wasson, opened in December 2011.
Vocational workshops certified by the National Technological Institute (INATEC) are offered in the following areas: sewing, welding, electricity, English, and office technology. Non-certified workshops are offered in jewelry making and decorative objects, as well as drawing and certain musical instruments in the area of arts
The “Good Samaritan” program provides medical services and therapies to children living with disabilities, and counseling and tutoring for parents so they may provide quality care for their children.
Community outreach, including training parents, and workshops on decorative arrangement and crafts, was expanded in 2023.
In 2024, the NPH school achieved a 96.5% retention rate, demonstrating the commitment of students and staff to academic success. Active student participation in all educational programs fostered engagement and motivation.

More Information:

• Holiday Celebrations at NPH Nicaragua
• Fact Sheet (PDF)
• Home Map (PDF)
• Visitor’s Guide (PDF)

How to Help:

• Sponsor a child
• Donate now

Learn about the other NPH homes: