Stories from the Field

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:5

“My name is Veronica. I have been serving as the coordinator of the Children of the Street program for over 6 years. The program exists for disadvantaged children.” Veronica is a teacher and works at the local school during the day and then leads the Children of the Street program in the afternoon.

Children of the Street provides a safe environment at the local church where the poorest children in the community can receive a fresh meal, tutoring, daily Bible lessons, activities, and sports.

“Many of the children are part of families of alcoholic parents, or are living with elderly grandparents, or experiencing some other difficult circumstance in their home,” says Veronica. “These kids need clothes, shoes, school supplies, hygiene products, hot lunches, and love and affection, which is sometimes lacking at home. Our goal is to provide help to those who need it, to give to those who lack it, and warm and feed all those in need.”

Along with the practical help offered, Veronica says the program also provides a place where “kids can get support from mentors and talk about their difficulties and experiences. They can pray with mentors.” Veronica and the rest of the staff point children to place their hope in God “because nothing is impossible for Him, and He, as a loving Father, will never leave us, and His hand will always be over us.”

As with all of Summit Missions' partners, the primary goal of the Children of the Street program is to share the Gospel. “The existence of the program would have no value without God,” Veronica told us. “Our task is to reach children's hearts--teach, instruct, and talk to them about God's love and mercy. And to let them know he loves everyone regardless of social status.”

The program is open daily and provides physical and spiritual food for 25-35 children in the community. “I am very grateful to God and everyone involved in this ministry to children,” Veronica says. “We ask you to support us in prayer.”

Ways to pray:

1. God will help them increase their reach to meet more people in need and for the resources needed to carry out ministry.

2. For the team that works with children, that God would give them wisdom as they serve.

3. For God to open the hearts of the children and their parents to the Word.

Summit Missions International is committed to supporting this program to ensure children receive food to nourish their bodies, along with care and spiritual food to nurture their hearts.