The children at Creation of Hope are being sheltered together throughout the pandemic lockdowns, safely ensconced on the grounds of Creation of Hope. As with so many children worldwide, they have not been able to attend school in person or to go to Sunday School. And for busy Creation of Hope manager Ruth, there is the lost joy of singing in a choir this year. Church was “a place of joy and rest” in a busy life spent taking care of everyone else – with 79 children living right at Creation of Hope, and 163 more children supported locally right now. With hundreds more reached with food outreach to families.

COVID-19 vaccines are in very short supply, and Kenya hopes to vaccinate half of the population by June 2022. In the meantime, there is no safety net and there are no emergency benefits to support people during the pandemic.

Yet, amidst the many challenges, Ruth is still encouraged! She sees the children blooming and becoming more healthy and active. Donor support provided a new playground this past year, and the kids also started their own student government.

The children are enjoying their new outdoor spaces, and one of the caretaking staff has even decided to teach the children to dance. Also, thanks to the generosity of Hope Story supporters, Creation of Hope was able to replace 50 worn-out mattresses, as well as provide the children with new shoes, and new school uniforms (for in-between lockdowns).