In the heart of Kisumu, Kenya, life has been full of precious moments over the past weeks. Missionary Natalia, serving with Mission Assistance, continues to dedicate her strength and love to children, preteens, and families — even while walking through her own season of recovery.

Every Wednesday or Saturday, the team gathers with local youth for services where the Gospel is shared in simple, living words. The children learn who Jesus is, why He came, what He has done for them, and how deeply He loves them. For many, the cup of traditional Kenyan porridge and a banana that follow the teaching are more than a snack — sometimes, it is their only meal in days. Such moments become a tangible reminder that God’s love is not distant, but present through the care of His people.

During the school holidays, Natalia and the team opened extra classes for children from the local children’s home and foster families. The goal was simple yet profound — to help them keep up with their studies, dream about a brighter future, and know they are not alone. After daily lessons came hot meals: ugali, sukuma, and even fried fish — a feast that the children received with joy and gratitude. Afternoons were filled with games, crafts, and conversations, ending in laughter and quiet assurance that they are loved.

One unforgettable day brought the children into the city for rides at the amusement park and a shared meal at a pizzeria. For many, it was a once-in-a-year celebration, a day etched into their hearts as proof that God sees them. Birthdays, too, became sacred occasions — with visits, cakes, and songs that reminded each child of their worth and place in God’s family.

With your support, the mission was able to purchase shoes for fifteen younger children. This time, instead of simply receiving a pair, the children went to a local shop and chose their own. Their excitement was uncontainable as they walked out with shoes they had picked themselves. In addition, a foster family received a mat, shelves, and a small gas cooker — modest gifts that became great blessings in their daily life.

As the rainy season brought cold weather, Natalia and her team distributed 45 kilograms of quality second-hand clothing. Each child received several warm hoodies, wrapping them not only in fabric but in the warmth of Christ’s care. Weekly, two to three families also received food packages — enough to sustain them for a month — and home visits allowed missionaries to encourage, pray, and walk alongside parents in their struggles and joys.

Amid all this, Natalia herself faced a health challenge. After surgery, she received the best possible news: no cancer cells remain. Another smaller surgery is scheduled for November to ensure her full recovery. Through it all, she continues to serve, testifying that God’s grace is sufficient and His love unshakable.

“Even in weakness, God gives me strength to keep serving this nation I love,” she shares with gratitude.

None of this would be possible without those who stand behind the mission in prayer and giving. Each meal, each hoodie, each joyful smile at the amusement park carries your fingerprints. Thank you for walking this journey of hope together with the missionaries in Kenya.

May the Lord bless you richly for every prayer and every gift that helps reveal His heart to children and families who need Him most.