Testimonies of Transformation From East Africa!
Dear Friends,
We see God work in exciting ways in the children and families we serve, and I am deeply grateful to you for the part you play in offering them hope. I pray these testimonials of transformation encourage you and highlight the tangible impact of your support!
Now I have hope for a MUCH better future
“I was lucky to attend school once a week when I was young. Most days, my teachers sent me home because I couldn’t afford to pay my school fees. I was raised by a single mother who passed away when I was nine years old. I was placed in my grandmother’s care and helped around the house and the farm. I lost hope.
At the age of 11, I got an opportunity to go to the City of Hope. Suddenly, I didn’t have to worry about anything – clothing, food, or school. My needs were met, and I just had to make the most of the opportunity. I graduated in 2024 from Milligan University in the US with majors in Graphic Design and Interactive Media Design and am completing an internship.
I can gratefully say that HopeCo has given me opportunities to succeed in life and a place to call home. Now I have hope for a better future. HopeCo’s mission is to transform lives, and my life can attest to this!”
John, lived at City of Hope, 2024 university graduate
Do child sponsors really matter?
(Excerpts from an actual letter from a university student to his sponsor.)
Dear Joseph*,
I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to let you know that I am a second-year student at Moshi Cooperative University (MOCU) pursuing a degree in accounting and finance.
I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous support and sponsorship. Your contribution has been a cornerstone of my academic journey. I have been doing exceptionally well in school. These accomplishments would not have been possible without your unwavering support.
Your sponsorship not only provided financial assistance but also motivated me to strive for excellence. Knowing that someone believes in my potential has been a tremendous source of encouragement. I am excited about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. I am determined to use the knowledge and skills I am acquiring to make a positive impact in my field and contribute to our community.
Once again, thank you. I am deeply grateful for your belief in me and my potential. May God bless you abundantly.
Warm regards,
Samuel*
*Name and photo changed to protect privacy.
embracing their second chance at life
"When girls come to the House of Faraja, they are usually timid and scared. But after much care and counseling, it is humbling to watch them open up and find their voice again. To hear their laughter and see their smiles is a confirmation that they want to fight for hope in their lives. And being re-enrolled in school is a big opportunity for them. The first day back at school is filled with joy as they turn away from their painful pasts and look to the future. One morning at 5 am, I saw three girls at our safe house sitting together and reading before school. Seeing how these girls embrace their second chance at life is incredible!”
Hilda Boke, Kenya Programs Director
A vision built on the gospel of jesus christ
“My greatest joy was not in sharing my wealth, strength, or Western insights; it was in meeting students on their journeys and offering hope from the pages of Scripture. That is what makes this place a true City of Hope: a vision built on and guided by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am forever grateful to the City of Hope for giving me and Emily, my wife, not only the opportunity to bless these children but also encouraging us to do so in the spirit and strength of Jesus.”
Alex Long, Intern at City of Hope
I know that God is working in this place
“Two years ago, one of the boys we serve, Philemon, was not doing well academically. To try and improve his performance, I met with him every day to encourage him and ask him questions. During our time together, there was a huge improvement – something every teacher loves to see in a student! Philemon is now doing well, will pass his final exams, and can go to university. He is well-behaved, listens to instructions, and then acts on them. When I ask him if he has unfinished work, he always says, “No!” In my opinion, he is the most improved student at our secondary school, and when I see a student like Philemon improving, it gives me hope that it is possible to help other students, too! I know God is working in this place because of all the changes I see in children like Philemon.”
Deusderith Majji, Secondary School Headteacher, Tanzania
Thank YOU for being part of the HopeCo family. We look ahead with anticipation for all that is to come - and we are excited to do it together!
With gratitude on behalf of the whole HopeCo team,
Al Lackey, CEO