For more than eight years, Natalia has been serving in Kenya as part of Mission Assistance. Her heart belongs to the children and teens from the slum communities of Dunga and Nanga — young lives full of resilience, questions, and the silent hope that love still exists for them.

This month, through the support of IMOC sponsors, the team hosted a Happy Time outreach for children from Dunga slums — a day bursting with laughter, movement, and pure joy.
Children played team games, solved puzzles, and took part in fun competitions. For a few hours, worries faded — replaced by smiles, bright eyes, and the sound of laughter filling the air.

For many of them, it was one of the happiest days they could remember — a rare day when they could simply be children. 💛
The field was full of life: sweet cotton candy, samosas, fruit, and small treats for everyone. But what touched the children most came at the end of the day — new T-shirts and warm sweaters.
For kids whose parents often can’t afford new clothes, this simple gift meant the world. Now, every Sunday when they come to church, Natalia and her team see them wearing those same shirts — small reminders of God’s care in everyday life.

“We are so grateful to IMOC,” Natalia says, “because through your support we can give more than food or clothing — we can give children a sense of dignity, joy, and love.”

The mission also continues to serve teens through discipleship and youth ministry.
Before each gathering, the team provides a hot meal or snacks — an act of care that helps meet both physical and spiritual hunger.

Recently, the youth had two special meetings.
The first was in small groups — spaces for open questions, reflection, and sharing personal stories.
The second was a large youth service where Natalia taught from Matthew 14:22–33, about Peter walking on water toward Jesus.

“When Peter kept his eyes on Jesus, he walked on water,” Natalia shared. “But when he looked at the waves — fear took over. In life, we all face storms. Even children do — fear, rejection, pain. Yet Jesus is always near, ready to lift us when we start to sink.”
The message touched many hearts. The room fell silent as teens reflected on their own struggles and faith.

Family Ministry and Foster Homes

Another vital part of Natalia’s ministry is supporting eight foster families who now care for children once sheltered in Daddy’s Home.
Recently, the team met with the Department of Children’s Services to review each family’s situation and plan home visits to assess well-being, needs, and improvements.

During a public holiday, they spent the day together with the children — by the lakeshore, enjoying sodas, laughter, and simple conversation.

“It felt like one big family reunion,” Natalia recalls. “We talked, joked, and took photos. For many of these kids, such moments are rare and precious.”

They are now preparing photo albums for each foster family — to preserve the memories that strengthen bonds and remind them how far they’ve come.

One difficult moment came when a young boy from the sponsorship program fell critically ill with malaria. His mother didn’t realize how serious it was until the team intervened and rushed him to the hospital.

“We thank God he is now recovering,” Natalia says. “Moments like this remind us how vital it is to stay close and respond quickly.”

And then came a story that filled everyone with joy:
two brothers, once abandoned by their parents, celebrated their first-ever birthday this October.

“They had never had a cake, a candle, or even a toy,” Natalia shared. “Seeing their faces glow with happiness — it was a miracle in itself.”

Today, they are in a loving foster home, and their father has started attending church. Small steps, but huge changes — proof that God is still writing beautiful stories from broken beginnings.

Looking Ahead

With the school holidays approaching, Natalia and her assistant, Esta, are planning two months of learning programs, evening activities, and Christmas preparations.
December will be a special time of Advent reflections, crafts, and children’s celebrations.

At the same time, they are preparing school supplies for the new year and continuing regular family visits — bringing food packages, encouragement, and prayer to homes.

“Sometimes all a family needs,” Natalia says, “is someone to sit with them, listen, and say: You’re doing well. We see you. We believe in you.”

As the year draws to a close, Natalia’s message to everyone who supports the mission is simple yet profound:

“Thank you for giving these children not just help, but hope. Thank you for being part of God’s story in Kenya.”