Rescuing children from a life on the streets

On Christmas Eve 2009, an 8-year-old boy walked into the Kaya Center, his arm wrapped firmly around the shoulders of one of his little brothers. Gerardo hadn’t seen his parents in years and didn’t know where his other little brother was. Hungry and hurting, his face was lined with concerns that no child his age should know: where will we sleep, when will we eat, how will I protect us tonight? He came with no possessions, yet he carried a heavy burden: the pain of years of abuse and abandonment, the unique wounds inflicted by life on the streets.

 

As I think about this time in the church year when we celebrate resurrection, restoration, and rebirth, I can’t help but think of Gerardo, that boy we met over 4 years ago. Because much like the story of Easter, Gerardo’s story is filled with new hope and new life.

 

That Christmas Eve, Gerardo was welcomed to Kaya with loving arms, and found a place where healing and transformation could begin. Today, Gerardo is an incredible kid. He is funny and smart. He makes me laugh when he talks endlessly about his pet snails. He has big plans for his life and dreams of travelling the world. He still has hard days. Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, and other holidays bring back the pain of the past, but he doesn’t have to face these days alone. He has people in his life that love him, care about him, pray for him, and help bear his burdens.

 

Earlier this year Gerardo went to our church youth camp. There, Gerardo walked through another new door, as he committed his life to Christ, one of four Kaya boys who asked to be baptized. Now that’s new life!

 

Kaya exists to live out the love and hope of the Resurrection in this world, and to love each child in our care as our own. Next week, we will be sharing with you by mail a new look at how Kaya loves and serves boys, girls, and mothers in Bolivia. Please take a moment to reacquaint yourself with our ministry and consider how you can support our work. We are in deep need for your financial partnership so our work here can continue. Through your support, Gerardo has found a new home and new life in a true family who loves him unconditionally. I want to be sure Kaya continues to provide a home for Gerardo. Would you consider making a gift to Kaya Children through GlobalGiving today?