Pangani

Greetings from Pangani!

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As we conclude another school term, we are grateful for God's grace that has brought us this far. Thank you for your support and partnership as we work together to transform lives through Christ. May God bless you!

Bob Otieno Omolo
Head Teacher, Pangani

Flood Update:

Since this Community Update was written before the extreme rain and flooding took place in Kenya, we want to provide a quick update.

Although we recently experienced heavy rains and flooding, we are thankful to report that our center was not damaged. Unfortunately, however, several of our students and their families were directly affected by the flooding. We are connecting with them to provide support.

If you'd like to donate to MOHI's flood relief efforts, you can donate here.

Hope Transforms: A Success Story

Trina* is now 14 years old and a student at MOHI’s Joska Center. Trina hails from the Pangani Center area and resides in a humble iron sheet house with her family. She is the eldest of two siblings, with her younger brother, Chris*, accompanying her on their journey through life's challenges.

Their family's world turned upside down when tragedy struck in July 2020. Trina's mother suffered a debilitating stroke, leaving her bedridden and unable to provide for her children. As the sole breadwinner, her absence cast a shadow of uncertainty over their lives. Trina and Chris found themselves thrust into roles beyond their years, grappling with responsibilities no child should bear.

The burden of their mother's illness weighed heavily on the family. With dwindling finances and no external support, Trina and Chris faced countless hardships. School attendance became sporadic as they struggled to balance caregiving duties with their academic responsibilities. The future looked bleak, with obstacles at every turn.

However, amidst the darkness, a ray of hope emerged. Missions of Hope International (MOHI) extended a helping hand, alleviating the family's financial strain and providing much-needed assistance. Through their intervention, Trina's mother received vital medical care, gradually regaining her strength and mobility. The family's spirits lifted as they felt the warmth of compassion and support from their new found MOHI community.

Trina's journey to Joska Girls was not just a physical transition but a testament to her unwavering determination. Despite the challenges, she embraced her education with fervor, determined to carve a brighter future for herself and her family. Her resilience shone through as she tackled each obstacle with courage and grace. Trina made the brave choice to leave her mother and go to boarding school to secure her future.

At our Joska Center, Trina found a nurturing environment that fostered her growth and development. Surrounded by supportive mentors and fellow students, she flourished academically and spiritually. Through daily prayers and encouragement, she found solace and strength to persevere.

Meanwhile, Chris, inspired by his sister's resilience, thrived academically and became her steadfast ally in their pursuit of a better life. Together, they navigated the highs and lows.

As their mother's health improved, she regained her independence, empowered by the unwavering support of Missions of Hope International and the community. She embarked on a small business venture, ensuring a stable income for her family and instilling a sense of hope for the future.

Trina and her brother Chris continue to give their mother hope that their future is bright. They are both working hard to make their mother's efforts worthwhile. We pray for their best as they bring hope to their home.

*Name changed for privacy

• We started the term with all students and staff smoothly. Curriculum implementation commenced seamlessly, accompanied by spiritual activities such as guidance and counseling, devotions, and mentorship. Our students actively participated in various co-curricular activities, including soccer, athletics, and drama festivals.
  
  
• We welcomed new students to our school, including 111 kindergarten students and 89 into other grades. It's inspiring to witness their transformation and adaptation to the school environment. We pray for their growth and success in fulfilling their God-given purposes.
  
  
• We are thankful for the transition of 113 students to high school. Some joined our MOHI high schools and others are now attending government high schools. Additionally, 98 students transitioned from primary to junior secondary school, with some joining our boarding schools in Joska and Ndovoini. It was heartwarming to reconnect with these students during the mid-term break and hear about their experiences in their new schools. We pray that they remain focused on their studies to achieve their dreams.

• Pray for God's favor and good health for all staff, children, and parents at Pangani Center and throughout the MOHI family in 2024.
  
  
• We have unsponsored students in our school. Let's pray for new partners to come forward and sponsor these students. Child sponsorship makes a big difference in a child’s life.
  
  
• Pray for the families affected by the floods. May God provide for them and meet them at their point of need.