Rescuing Vulnerable Girls in East Africa
Many girls in East Africa face a desperate situation. Childhood violence and abuse are rampant in many communities. More than half of children report having experienced physical or sexual violence during their childhood. This has severe consequences for the health and well-being of children by increasing risky sexual behavior, mental health problems, and the risk of victims becoming perpetrators of abuse themselves.
The COVID-19 pandemic increased risks to vulnerable children, especially girls. Besides an increase in child labor, many girls were forced to drop out of school and enter forced and abusive marriages often resulting in teen pregnancies. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is still a major problem, especially in the Kuria tribe where much of our work is focused.
Our response includes the following:
PROTECTION AND CARE
HopeCo operates a safe house that provides protective care to vulnerable girls that have been rescued from abuse. Here these girls are safe, receive trauma-informed counseling, quality education, and are cared for by our loving staff.
EMPOWERING WOMEN
We empower vulnerable women, mostly young teen moms, by providing them with the skills needed to earn an income and provide for their families. This program also provides emotional and spiritual care for these women.
INVESTING IN FAMILIES
We work with community leaders to provide education about gender-based violence, and we offer other forms of practical support to families. We are exploring new opportunities to expand programs that work with struggling communities.
There’s HOPE for Hannah* at House of Faraja!
Hannah joined the rest of the girls at House of Faraja (HOF) end of last year. She is a very hard-working girl, follows instructions, and is exuberant in all she does. She is a bit shy but when someone “steps on her toes” she’s able to defend herself! But that’s not how Hannah was when she first arrived at House of Faraja.
Unfortunately, being raised by a single mother, who’s trying to make ends meet, has been difficult for everyone. With few options to care for Hannah when her mom left home for work, Hannah was left with her grandmother. Sadly, while her grandmother went to the market to buy food for them, a neighbor molested Hannah.
Months later, Hannah still battles the effects of this devastating violation. Our staff has been in and out of the hospital several times trying to get her the treatment she needs. We are praying that the doctors find a solution so that she can begin to heal and lead a healthy life.
When Hannah came to House of Faraja, she was withdrawn and kept to herself, until she realized she was in a safe environment. Now she enjoys interacting and playing with the other girls in the home.
Hannah is well-liked by her teachers at school! She shows initiative and is eager to learn and is one of the best pupils in her class! We are delighted and thankful for this progress and look forward to what God has in store for her!
*Name changed to protect privacy.
“For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, the Lord plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
Join the Rescue Team
Will you join the fight for justice? As we rescue and care for vulnerable girls who face violence, we need partners who are passionate about giving hope and healing!
We want to see each precious girl heal from the trauma they have experienced, and see their lives changed as they come to know their lovingly Heavenly Father. Whenever possible, we also desire to see each girl reunited with their families and to help these families flourish.
Countless girls still need rescue! Will you join in the fight against abuse, violence, and child marriage in this community?
Here’s How You can partner with OUR SAFE HOUSE:
GIVE to House of Faraja to help HopeCo rescue and provide the trauma-informed counseling and loving Christian care these girls desperately need to heal.
PRAY for our staff as they provide care and counseling to these young girls. Pray for justice in the legal system in Kenya, as many of these cases are slow moving. Pray for healing and restoration for each girl who comes to our safe house, that they would experience hope and healing through Jesus Christ.
SERVE by coming on a mission team or as a volunteer to City of Hope, and see first hand the situation facing young children in East Africa.