24 Jan Faces of Children of Hope: Mark
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
~ 2 Corinthians 9:8
While last year didn’t come without its fair share of challenges, it also brought about lifelong memories, friendships, and accomplishments. If you’ve been following along on our journey, you probably know that our Kitatale and Kikuyu homes came together to celebrate Christmas as a big family. Many of our children got the chance to reunite with their brothers and sisters, while others formed new bonds. Everyone was excited to experience the holiday season together. We feel so thankful to have been able to come together and share the love and grace that God showers upon us.
Love in our home is unconditional, and seeing how our children take care of one another warms our hearts immensely. Last year, we were blessed to have Mark enter our lives at Children of Hope. A calm and jovial child, Mark is rarely seen without a smile wrapped around his face. He brightens up any room he walks into. When we think of Mark, we immediately think of the smile on his face.
Origin Story
Mark Njoroge Kamau was welcomed into our family on May 26, 2021. Living for the past five years in a slum with his mother, Mark had been undergoing challenges since birth. Due to his mother’s severe alcoholism and mental illness challenges, Mark was often left at home for hours or even days without food or warm clothing. His neighbors would step in and take care of Mark when his mother was out, but the Children’s Department and the courts determined that it wasn’t a safe environment for Mark and made the decision to remove him.
The Children’s Department contacted CoH and soon after Mark joined our family. We welcomed him in our traditional way with songs, a dance, and prayers. We are so grateful to have Mark join the Kikuyu family where he is getting the love and care he needs to thrive.
A Story of Friendships
Mark is a bright light at the Kikuyu home. Having adjusted very well to his new home, Mark is a friendly, responsible, and dependable child. One of his greatest gifts is his gentle nature. He is a ‘brother’s keeper,’ always watching out for younger children during playtime. Curious about how the world around him works, Mark is always asking questions and talking to his brothers and sisters.
Mark is very close to Gabriel Okoth and Grace Wanja, and is always seen rolling tires around in the field with them. They bicker like siblings and make-up like siblings. It is lovely watching Mark grow into a compassionate, nurturing, and responsible boy in front of our eyes.
Mark isn’t just popular amongst his peers. He is adored amongst the aunties and uncles as well. When asked about Mark, Auntie Damaris was quick to answer;
“Whenever we are busy, we entrust Mark to play with the babies and keep them busy; a task he enjoys so much,” says Auntie Damaris.
“We are pleased with Mark’s progress and are determined to see him thrive,” Uncle Kefa chimed in.
Mark is making great strides in such a short period of time. However, like any child, his progress doesn’t come without some challenges.
Overcoming Hurdles
When Mark joined our family, he was a year behind his peers academically. He is now going into Kindergarten at the age of 5 and learning his numbers and language skills. Even though Mark has a lot of catching up to do with his academics, he is a young boy determined to excel.
We are thankful that God is with us on our journey to love and nurture Mark and pray for God to give Mark the strength and care he needs to thrive. We’d love it if you could join us in praying for Mark. We are eternally blessed to have you be a part of our family.
Let us continue to love and care for our children, and give them the life they deserve. Show your support by making a contribution to the Child Sponsorship Fund.