Nairobi, Kenya is one of the most densely populated cities in the world with about 3.4 million people in 269 square miles. The overcrowding undoubtedly adds to the already existing problems of poverty, abuse, and child labor. This makes growing up in Nairobi tough, even if you do have both of your parents. Most children feel pressured to drop out of school in hopes of earning money.
David and Alice Hinga answered the call to try to feed, educate, and care for hundreds of children in Nairobi by opening Hope for the Children. Currently there are 260 boys and girls living at the home and another 168 children are served in their schooling and feeding programs. The school plays an essential part in the community because it is also a tool used to increase awareness about clean hygiene. They also use their relationship with the community to teach about Jesus Christ.
Many of the children suffered abuse and traumas before coming to Hope for the Children and often don’t trust others. Having a house parent is difficult to adjust to and many kids have behavioral problems. That was the case with Dennis Thuo three years ago. Dennis had serious behavioral problems and was among three others who arranged for a school riot in October 2013. Thankfully their plan was found out and the riot didn’t take place.
The staff knew that he came from a broken family and was cared for by his aging grandfather. Even after establishing his key role in the riot, the school chose to forgive and rehabilitate him. The counselor, pastor and school management all worked together to help Dennis.
A year later Dennis would give his heart to the Lord because of the compassion and mercy that was shown at Hope for the Children.
He learned first-hand about the patient love of Jesus Christ from the examples that were set for him by the staff. Dennis is now in the 10th grade and a peer counselor. He also helps set an example for other members of the school by serving on the student government and being a committed member of the Christian Union.
Although Dennis lost a year of school during his struggle with social problems, the patient care from the staff at Hope for the Children has paid off. He is now one of the most dependable Christian students in the school. The staff knows that their job isn’t just to enforce rules but to minister to each child’s unique needs.
Each home supported by Serving Orphans Worldwide, though vastly different, strives to transform the lives of children with the love of Christ. SOW’s aim is that the children will become committed Christians who take responsibility for their lives, their communities, and their world.
(Source: Serving Orphans Worldwide)