Life near the Equator continues at a slower pace during the dry season in Kenya. With school holidays underway, many children have returned home, and daily rhythms have become quieter. At the same time, ministry preparation has intensified as teams prepare for Christmas celebrations and the upcoming school term in January.

During November and early December, the local team hosted multiple visiting groups and worked closely with them in children’s and family ministries. A significant part of this season was the visit of Anatolii, Mykola, and their team. Together, they served children in foster families and orphans, spending time with them, encouraging both children and caregivers, and offering practical and emotional support. Beyond shared meals and small gifts, the focus of this visit was personal presence, conversation, and sincere care, which became a meaningful encouragement for children and foster parents alike.

The children’s shelter currently supports 43 children—orphans and children living in foster families. Each family is visited regularly to assess needs and provide essential support. Through the consistent support of mission sponsors, the team is able to supply clothing, footwear, hygiene items, towels, and bedding. In December, special attention was given to school preparation. Despite limited resources, donations made it possible to purchase full school uniform sets for 30 children, including uniforms, sweaters, socks, and belts. In addition, every child received a backpack and a complete stationery kit in preparation for the new school year. Educational supplies were carefully prepared according to four learning levels: Pre-Primary, Primary, Junior Secondary, and Senior Secondary.

Throughout the holidays, the team continues to spend daily time with the children—sharing meals, hosting lessons, and organizing Advent activities focused on kindness and responsibility. One of the challenges encouraged children to actively help others throughout the day, which resulted in children assisting missionaries, elderly community members, and families with genuine initiative and joy.

Weekly food package distribution to families in need also continues, alongside regular home visits and pastoral support. In addition, the team regularly organizes Happy Time programs in rehabilitation centers, schools, and near local churches. These events are designed to bring joy to children while sharing the message of the Gospel. One of the largest Happy Time outreaches was held alongside a medical clinic, gathering more than 700 children. The program included Bible teaching, prayer activities, creative workshops, games, and refreshments, all structured to ensure children were cared for physically, emotionally, and spiritually in the extreme heat.

Preparation and planning remain a central part of the ministry. Regular meetings with leaders and volunteers ensure that children’s and preteen programs are well-organized and effective. The team is currently preparing for a large Christmas outreach in the Dunga slum, where more than 500 children are expected to attend. As part of this season, a Christmas gift project is underway, providing 3,000 gifts for children across two churches. The gifts are carefully purchased, packed, and distributed to ensure every child experiences joy while hearing about the meaning of Christmas and the birth of Jesus Christ.

This ministry in Kenya continues thanks to the faithful support of sponsors who stand with children, families, and local teams through IMOCE-supported work. Their generosity makes it possible to provide practical care, education support, and consistent Gospel-centered ministry throughout the year.