Warm greetings from the equator! Natalia has been serving with the Assistance Mission in Kenya for eight years, and her heart continues to be with the children and families she meets every day. This month she shares with us the beauty and the challenges of ministry among preteens, orphans, and foster families.

Preteens Ministry

Every week, on Wednesdays or Saturdays, more than 250 children between the ages of 8 and 12 gather for preteens ministry. The purpose is simple yet life-changing: to introduce children to Jesus, to share the Gospel, and to show them who He is, why He came into this world, and how deeply He loves them.

For many of the children, even a simple cup of a traditional Kenyan porridge made of grains and bananas becomes a true blessing. Some of them have not eaten for several days, and this small act of care becomes a tangible sign of Christ’s love.

“When children realize that it is Jesus Himself, through His people, who provides for them — their hearts are touched in a very special way,” Natalia shares.

Supporting Orphans and Foster Families

One of the most treasured parts of ministry is walking alongside foster families and orphans. The goal is not only to provide food or clothing, but to help children find a home, love, and stability — and to help parents receive encouragement and spiritual guidance.

Each week, 2–3 families come for fellowship and mentoring. Afterward, they receive food packages to sustain their large households. Sometimes the team visits homes directly, to pray with the families, share in their joys, or simply listen to their struggles.

Birthday visits are especially meaningful. A cake, a song, a hug, and the words “You are loved and you matter” can bring light into a child’s life that once was marked only by loneliness.

Recently, thanks to the generosity of supporters, the mission was able to buy warm trousers and shoes for several girls in church. What seems like a small gift for many became a cause of great celebration — a visible sign of God’s care.

A New Beginning: Sunday School

Another important step has been the opening of a Sunday school for children from the local church. Natalia and the team believe that the foundation of faith is built from childhood, and their vision is to see children learning to pray, to read God’s Word, and to live in His love.

Gratitude

“Dear friends, I thank you for your faithfulness and constant support — both financial and prayerful,” Natalia writes. “It is because of you that children here can find hope, families can be strengthened, and Christ’s love can be seen in everyday life. May the Lord richly bless you for your kindness and open hearts.”