What is the weather like in Juarez?

Juarez is in the Chihuahuan desert, and its climate is a mix of desert and urban conditions. Juarez is farther south than many locations in the U.S., so its winters are mild, but its summers are warmer. Temperatures in the winter rarely drop into the 20s, and summer days are often above 100. Juarez enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year, and its drier climate helps mitigate summer heat.

What if I want to come on a Mission Trip, but have concerns about the heat?

Quick answer: Come during a different time of year. July, August, and September are the warmest months in Juarez, so if you have concerns, then come during the other 9 months when it is cooler. If you wish to come with a team during the warmest time, plan to pace yourself and discipline yourself to stay hydrated and prevent overheating.

Isn’t Juarez dangerous?

Yes, there is crime, predators, cheats, and corruption in the city of Juarez. The city of Juarez, the state, and federal government have different methods and approaches to dealing with crime and corruption than those in the U.S. There are parts of the city and times of day that are more dangerous for U.S. citizens. However, Doulos takes every step possible to ensure the safety and well-being of teams and individuals serving with us in the city. There are risks to traveling and serving in any city in the U.S., and even more so in a city in another nation. We do not ignore the risks, but we also understand that some of the perceived dangers result from cultural, language, and location differences and are often not that different from other places in the U.S.

What are the living conditions in Juarez?

Worse than you think. Some live very comfortably, but the ones we minister to most often do not have hot water; they heat their homes with wood, their roofs leak, and their drinking water supply is inconsistent. Many power their homes with less electricity than your hair dryer consumes. All of them dry their clothes outdoors, and no one knows what a dishwasher is.

I’m too scared to cross the border. Do you have anyplace I can serve in El Paso?

Yes, there are many places you can serve in El Paso, and we are happy to connect and facilitate you serving in those areas.

How far is Juarez from El Paso, TX?

Juarez and El Paso are two cities separated by a river. In some places, the river is less than thirty feet across. If the national border did not divide the metropolis, the two cities would be one.

Why do I need a passport to come on a trip?

You are crossing an international border that Doulos does not control. According to Customs and Border Protection guidelines, every person’s citizenship must be verified before re-entering the U.S. The federal government officially states that all adults must have a valid passport to enter the U.S. Minors may enter with a birth certificate when accompanied by a parent, but passports for minors are preferred.

Can I still come if I don’t speak Spanish?

Yes.

I’m not great with kids. Can I still come on a trip?

Being “great” with kids is very subjective. However, there are a variety of places to serve depending on preferences and affinities.

Do you accept donations like clothes and toys?

Yes, we do. However, the people in Juarez know the difference between clothing or items given out of a heart to bless them and those given to empty a closet or clear junk out of a garage. Used hygiene items, heavily worn clothing, broken toys, etc., are not welcomed and rarely make it past the ministry’s processing point.