A red carpet welcome. Music and dancing. A special meal and a chance to relax.
For families who have often experienced exclusion because of their child’s disability, these moments carry deep meaning. At MOHI’s annual Shine Dance this October, children with disabilities and their caregivers were welcomed into a celebration created especially for them, affirming that they are seen, known, and deeply loved by God.
More than 170 children and their families from the larger Mathare Valley communities gathered at MOHI’s Coram Deo Gardens alongside MOHI leaders, board members, staff, and short-term teams for the event.
A Place to Belong
Raising a child with a disability in extreme poverty can mean navigating each day with limited access to specialized care, accessible facilities, and support. Many caregivers, including single mothers, balance their children’s care with the daily responsibility of earning enough to provide for their families.
For some, those challenges are compounded by stigma. Families may feel misunderstood, unwelcome, or left out of community life. Children can be overlooked because others see their disabilities before recognizing their gifts, personalities, and God-given worth.
The Shine Dance offers families a place where they and their children are welcomed and celebrated. Held annually by Missions of Hope International, the event brings families together to sing, dance, share a meal, and connect with others who understand their experiences.
Love in the Details
Children dressed as princes and princesses arrived for a red-carpet welcome. Music filled the venue as families gathered, and MOHI students shared songs, dance performances, poems, and Bible memory verses. Parents cheered as the children took center stage.
Throughout the day, MOHI staff held, played with, and cared for children so their caregivers could enjoy a meal and take part in the celebration.
For a parent whose days revolve around caring for a child, being able to sit down and eat while a trusted person tends to their child can be a rare gift. In those moments, staff offered practical care that communicated something deeply personal: your child is precious, and you deserve care, too.
MOHI Co-Founders and Leaders, Dr. Wallace and Mary Kamau, encouraged caregivers, recognizing the love and commitment they show their children every day. Parents also shared how MOHI’s special needs program and dedicated staff have supported their families.
Care That Continues
Before leaving, each family received a food basket to help meet household needs in the weeks ahead.
The Shine Dance is one expression of MOHI’s ongoing ministry with children with disabilities and their families. Through the special needs program, staff continue building relationships and supporting children beyond the celebration.
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