Historical Links to our Community:

• Congregation of St. Agnes has served in Nicaragua over 50 years
• Capuchin Franciscan's presense in Nicaragua dates from the 1800s
• Bishop Schmitz originally from Fond du Lac

Selection of Rosita

2001 Chosen by Holy Family as sister parish because:

• Dire Poverty
• Geographic Location
• Potential for mutual growth as a Twinning Parish
• Desire to offer friendship, solidarity and advocacy to those struggling under oppression


• Initial visit to Rosita, 2002: Focus was Education
• First medical visit to Rosita, 2003: Focus was Assessment of Healthcare Situation
• Second medical visit to Rosita, 2004: Focus was Healthcare Assessment and Support

Nicargua Facts:

• Largest country in Central America
• 5 million people - Over 80% live in Poverty
• Per capita income $430 per year
• Health care spending $13 per year per capita
• Infant Mortality Rate - 36 per 1000
• Life Expectancy - 67 Male and 71 Female

Rosita Facts:

• Population 35,000 - 100 Communities
• Healthcare Budget Approximately $22,000 per year
• 13 Physicians - 113 Healthcare Workers
• Midwives/Natural Medicine Practitioners/Dental Workers