2024 Top Ten List

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 I can’t tell you every activity or program we did at VOH in the last 12 months in this update – it needs a whole book for that! But, I can give you a few examples that helped so many children in real and life changing ways.


Following is one picture from each of our 10 centers with a brief description for each. As you scan through them - note the wide variety of ways we pour into children's lives and be blessed knowing  your support, prayers and encouragement helped made it possible!

Let's countdown from 10 to 1. Here we go ... ready?


10. VOH BWIZA (Burundi)  Several children did a traditional dance at our school year-end ceremony. In addition to academics in school, exploring their talent, like dancing, help the children to build their confidence and grow socially together.


9. VOH MARAMVYA (Burundi) In an effort to promote sports and physical activity for the VOH children and community, we started to build a football field on our premises this year. It's fun for the children, and will create a sense of team spirit and healthy competition too! 


8. VOH MALAWI (Malawi) - Working with the Ministry of Health, a Infection Prevention program was conducted for children before the rainy season started, when children are most vulnerable to diseases. The children were vaccinated against common, but dangerous, diseases to keep them healthy and safe.



7. VOH BULALE (Tanzania) - In addition to highlight of the Official Launch of the center that I shared in my August update, another is the special event held at the end of each school term to acknowledge students who have excelled in areas such as academics, behaviour and attendance. These exceptional students are awarded in front of their peers, which motivates others to strive for excellence in the future.


6. VOH MWANZA (Tanzania) - Discipleship classes were held every week, giving children a chance to sing, hear God's word and grow spiritually. This is where I'm based - and hearing them sing from my office is always the highlight of my week!   



5. VOH CHONGWE (Zambia) - Centres continued to take in children in need this year. Chongwe is one example where they took in in 2 brothers in urgent need of care. They were brought to us by social welfare department and police support unit, and were in dire need of food, accommodation, clothing and care by adults. They settled into VOH this year and are now safe and doing well in the feeding program and school!


4. VOH KITWE (Zambia ) - A creative space was opened with an art room where children expressed their ideas and emotions through drawing and painting. We have already seen the increase in their self-esteem and confidence! 


3. VOH LUONGO (Zambia ) - In Luongo, school based assessments were conducted and submitted to the education district office before they move to the next grade. This happens in many of centres to make sure the children are reaching meeting and exceeding the highest academic standards. 




2. VOH MONGU (Zambia) - This adorable little girl, Betty, started her life left alone at the local hospital. VOH provided essential supplies to the neonatal ward to ensure she received the care she needed. She has found a home in one of our children's homes where she received the care she needs. She has now doubled her initial weight and is happy and healthy.


1. VOH ZIMBABWE (Zimbabwe) - Over 20 children took a significant step in their faith journey by being baptized and declaring their faith in the witness of their family and friends!

I want to go on and on... but I know you are busy this time of year. All I can say, is it's true. Children lives are being impacted by the work of VOH. They are looked after physically, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually. They are loved and cared for.

My ministry with VOHA is to help with all of it, supporting the directors in the operations and what they do everyday. Thank you for your part too. Your support, prayers and encouragement are a blessing to me and to the ministry of VOHA. It is the foundation of my work and I truly couldn't continue without you. Thank you for all you do. If you are able to consider a special year end gift it would be a great help towards my 2025 budget.  I look forward to what God has in store for 2025.  There's still much to be done! 

Many thanks and blessings!
Jeanette

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