My Story

Paulette, and her older siblings Nancy, Karen and Brayan Balderas are the children of single Mother, Norma. Norma and her children arrived at CDL in April 2013 after they were suddenly deported from the United States after living there for 8 years. Their family literally arrived in Primo Tapia with only the clothes on their backs. Shortly after arriving, Norma got a job working at a local hotel. It was there that she learned about Casa de Luz from another family whose kids had attended. She came right away to see about her children attending. Since her children have been a part of CDL Norma has slowly begun to put the pieces of her family back together. Norma currently works at a local restaurant owned by another CDL Mom, Marilu. She has finally found stability and community in her life and for her family. Norma had only completed her middle school education when she first became a part of CDL, but she is currently finishing her high school education with us on-site. One of the greatest goals she has for her life is to finish her education!