We have been doing some work lately to fine-tune our focus and define what unites us as the Children of Hope family. I believe we found just the right words, and we are excited to share them with you:
YOU are part of this amazing family! Your prayers, your support, your investments are helping change the lives of these children and providing an environment where they can flourish.
The definition of flourishing is, “a condition denoting good mental and physical health: the state of being free from illness and distress but, more important, of being filled with vitality and functioning well in one’s personal and social life” American Psychological Association.
This definition is beautiful! What is even more powerful is that it describes our children perfectly! Every child joins our family from a place of hardship, but with the unconditional love and committed care they receive in our homes, each child is:
- healthy, both mentally and physically
- free from distress
- filled with vitality
- functioning well – VERY well!!
Praise Jesus
for His work in the lives of our kids.
Take a look at the beautiful faces of some of our flourishing children.
You can see how much our aunties and uncles adore each child.
And guests are immediately welcomed into the CoH family.
Our children’s love, acceptance, joy, and peace permeate all they do. Connecting heart-to-heart with them happens naturally.
Matthew 18:2-4, “He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’” What a good reminder of where we should look to find greatness – to the children.
If you would like to experience Kenya and meet our children face-to-face, please reach out at info@cohafrica.org. You will be so grateful you did!
Auntie Lydia Chemunui has been working in our Kitalale home since it was literally being built back in 2009. She lived close by the Children of Hope land and worked daily, keeping the construction debris cleaned up around the compound. Her work was of such good quality that those managing the project took notice – especially a young man named Abraham Kiboki! He was so impressed with her heart and her work ethic that he asked if she would be willing to join the Children of Hope team! She was VERY HAPPY to say yes!
Auntie Lydia and her husband have eight children of her own, ranging in age from 36 to 15. It has been her privilege to be their mother. She came from a humble family so did not attend high school. Instead, she went through a government program called Kenya National Youth Service where she learned to be a tailor.
“Thank you, Lydia, you are an integral part of the Children of Hope story. One day, when we write our history, I am sure your name will be included. You help us shine brightly because you keep things neat and tidy, but also because Jesus shines through you to our children. May God bless you.” ~ Abraham Kiboki
In Lydia’s Words:
Since the very first day, I have worked in the housekeeping department, cleaning the floors, washing the clothes, just keeping everything neat and tidy for the children. It has been an absolute pleasure! In addition to the cleaning, I love that I get to play with and engage with the children – both young and old. Usually, even before I can start my duties, the kids are teasing and visiting with me, and it warms my heart and sets up my day to be full of joy. It makes me realize that this is not just a job – I am changing the lives of these children I serve.
There are so many stories that touch my heart, but I have a special bond with Blessing. He was one of the first five children we welcomed into our Kitalale home. I remember him coming to us because he needed a safe home. He was abandoned during the tribal clashes on Mt. Elgon and was so thin and malnourished. But with the love and care he received here, I just couldn’t believe how strong and healthy he grew. The two of us were just laughing and joking the other day about how far he has come – he is on his way to university! He was so frightened as he was preparing to take his final exams but he was fearful for no reason! Blessing did incredibly well on his tests and was immediately accepted into a physical therapy program at university. I could not be more proud of this young man.
When I am not working at CoH, I enjoy cooking for my family, sitting around the table, and sharing the word of God with them. This family time is really important to me – staying invested and helping guide them in God’s way.
What I have gained from CoH is tremendous. Because of this place my children received quality education, health care, and provision for their needs. But I have also been filled with hope and joy as I love and raise these precious CoH children.
Our home has also had a great impact on the surrounding village. We have provided jobs for the locals, a playground for the village children, and our well provides free, clean water to the entire community. Thank you to our founders, John and Sharna, and for those who support our home. You bring life to this community, and I cannot be more grateful.
Auntie Lydia – Your hands have been cleaning and comforting for many, many years and we are so thankful for you. Even as you plan to retire at the end of the year, please know we love you and you will always be a part of our family.
