For the last, I am not real sure, but I think about four months, anywhere from 100-170 kids have been coming to my house for lunch once a week. About two weeks ago some, hmmm…. we will call them men in uniform, came to the hospital and said the lunches have to stop. If they aren’t stopped, the hospital will be closed down. So, the lunches have been cancelled. I have been told the reason is that there is a law that says something along the lines of no individual can help another without approval from big brother. (One example of this, is that you cannot give a beggar money, but you have to “drop” it on the ground and then they can “find” it.) This approval takes about 3 months. To start an NGO takes a minimum of 10 months.
My two years here ends in September of this year. I have gotten approval to extend my contract through the end of the year to decide if I am going to stay on longer. Honestly, these last two months have been extremely difficult for me on so many levels. All that being said, I cannot continue with the street kids ministry at this time. Since I do not know if I will be staying, I am not going to attempt to get approval for a project unless I decide to stay.
Thank you all for you financial support and prayers. Please keep all these kids in your prayers.
We have always been taught to help your neighbor. Apparently not the case there. They should be thanking you rather than threatening to close the hospital. My thoughts and prayers are with you Steph!
Stephanie: I will keep you and the street ministry children in my thoughts and prayers and also that God changes the men in uniform’s hearts and minds and attitudes so that you may continue to do what God has called you to do. May God Bless your servants heart for whatever decision that you make; that is made with the Heart of God.
I continue to follow your blog posts and really enjoy reading them. Your posts inspire me to help others.
I have a question for you about hospitals (medical care) available in Soddo and I was hoping that you might email me at johnstonj40@hotmail.com
This was the only way I could think of to contact you.
Janice
Steph, You are one amazing woman! Keep your chin up girl! Love and miss you lots and lots!
Stephanie,
I am sorry to hear that such a wonderful act of service has been squashed for no apparent reason. I am praying that God will give you a joyous heart inspite of these setbacks in helping the kids.
Mark Pollock
Maybe you could drop the lunches on the ground and the kids could find them? Crazy!!! We will be praying for you! You have made a huge difference in so many people’s lives!! So many that you will never know of the impact until you recieve your heavenly treasure, stay strong and rest in Him!!
Steph…I know that whenever you get involved iin a ministry, it extends far beyond the scope of the “mission”. And when you see a need, you work to get it fixed. I’m so troubled by the experiences you have had to endure, but, I know that in the end, God is victorious, and your work will not be in vain. I pray for wisdom and guidance as you weigh out your options, and seek to find God’s will in your life. We love you…Tim and Cheryl
Praying for you and the choices you face and the safety and future of the street children. I know this hasn’t been the easiest experience, but usually anything good or worth doing isn’t easy. Find peace in the One who strengthens you!
Praying for you, Stephanie. I pray for wisdom in all aspects of your ministries. 🙂
Stephanie, have you tried contacting YWAM? They may be able to help with the street kids/foster care. I know it must seem overwhelming, but don’t give up. I think there are many who would be willing to partner with you to provide for these children. May God continue to guide your paths and make your ways straight!