Harold and Jodi Bauman founded Oaxaca Street Children Grassroots in 1996. They had spent a lifetime caring for their own children in Missouri, USA where they were mental health professionals. The couple first came to Oaxaca on vacation in 1984, and although they were enchanted by the city, they were deeply troubled by the many young children they saw working in the streets and parks. These youngsters were selling trinkets and candy, both during school and nighttime hours.

The Baumans began by helping one family of Triqui Indians to enroll their children in school. Each year they expanded their efforts and spent more time in Oaxaca. By 1996, they and a few friends were supporting approximately seventy children, and Harold and Jodi realized that they could reach more children if they formalized their initiative. Together with another couple, they chartered Oaxaca Street Children Grassroots and created a child-sponsorship program.

Today over two hundred and sixty children and adolescents have international sponsors (or “Godparents”) through the auspices of the organization. In addition, they added a Food and Medical Program and a Community Center.

Volunteers can play with the children, help with homework and reading with the school-age children, assist with any projects in the organization that may not involve direct contact with the children such as administrative work and help in the kitchen, help with classes for the younger children, organize games and activities with the children, provide care, love and attention to the children.