Hello

My Story

My name is Adriana Jazmin Saldarriaga. I’m married to my wonderful husband, Rene Saldarriaga, and we are blessed with three children: Josiah (11), Estrella (10), and Isaiah (7). At 18 years old, I was told I would never become a mother—but God had other plans. When I found out I was pregnant with Josiah, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. That gratitude ignited something deep within me—I enrolled in college for child development because I knew I wanted to be the best mother I could possibly be. During that same time, God placed an even deeper calling on my heart. He reminded me that many children in the world also needed love, care, and a mother figure. I began to visit orphanages—especially the Door of Faith Orphanage in Rosarito, Mexico every other week throughout my pregnancy. I was also leading the children’s ministry at my church. Shortly after Josiah was born, I was a single mom doing my best to raise him in God’s love when I received a phone call about a baby in need of a home. I said yes and welcomed Estrella into our family. Josiah and Estrella are just 10 months apart. That’s when I decided to go back to school at Southwestern College to further my studies in child development, fully understanding the sacred responsibility of motherhood and the impact of raising children to know and love God. As I continued walking in obedience to this calling—raising my children, ministering to others, and mentoring young parents—I found myself in a season that would become the birthplace of Pure Heart.

I was working at a Christian preschool, still visiting orphanages, and leading the children’s ministry when one day I was unexpectedly called into the office and let go. My boss told me, “Jazmin, God is calling you to open your own childcare.” At the time, I was a single mom of two, living on $800 a month with a rent of $1,200. I had no idea how we were to survive. But I chose to trust God. I held on to the faith that if He was calling me, He would make a way.

Soon after, I had a dream. In which I was walking through a building that looked like a hotel. In every room, there were children from all different nationalities. As I passed by each one, I would speak life into them—telling them how precious they were and how deeply they were called by God. I woke up knowing: This who I am.

So with humble beginnings, I invited a few of my church friends that where mom and their children to join me. we would worship together, study the Bible, and then take field trips with our kids. It was simple, but it was holy. In 2018, I met my husband, Rene. Today, we partner in this mission together. He is one of Pure Heart’s greatest supporters, and our family has been so blessed by the calling we now share. As Pure Heart grew, a friend encouraged me to become licensed as a childcare provider. Many of the families I was serving were young moms in need of support and guidance. I helped them apply for assistance, and until it was approved, I cared for their children free. My heart has always been to create a space that feels like home—a place God is the foundation, and love the atmosphere. Now, seven years later, Pure Heart Christian Academy continues to grow. Every child who walks through our doors is loved, valued, and seen. We are committed to partnering with families to raise children who have a Kingdom mindset—full of joy, purpose, and the knowledge of who they are in Christ. Thank for being a part of this journey with us. It an honor to serve you and your precious children. With love and purpose, Adriana Jazmin Saldarriaga Founder, Pure Heart Christian Academy