The ImpactHope blog features news, updates, interviews, videos and images of where we are, what we’re doing, and how we’re making an impact. (And how you can too!)
In a world filled with hardships and adversity, the story of Ronnie, a 14-year-old boy with boundless dreams, shines as a beacon of hope and resilience. Despite the many tragedies he has faced in his young life, Ronnie remains quietly assured of a brighter future, thanks to the transformative support of Shelter of Hope (SOH), a Christian non-profit organization supported by ImpactHope, that is making a profound impact in Kenya.
Meet Sarah, a resilient widow living in one of the remote villages of Malawi. Life had not been kind to her, and she found herself struggling to make ends meet after her husband’s passing. With limited resources and no sustainable source of income, she faced the daunting challenge of providing for her children. Every day was a battle against poverty and uncertainty…
Prepare to journey back in time with us as we unveil the profound history behind one of our cherished articles that embodies the heart and soul of our mission. Join us as we rewind the clock to an unforgettable moment that left an indelible mark on both those who embarked on the journey and the lives they touched. In 2001, the heartbeats of around 65 dedicated short-term missionaries resonated…
Leaving behind a thriving 28-year masonry career in Canada was not an easy decision. Still, when the call to serve less fortunate children in the enchanting southern Amazon jungle of Peru became impossible to ignore, my family and I knew we had to follow our hearts. My name is Scott Blackburn, and we embarked on a life-changing adventure alongside my wife Tracy and our sons Jaxon and Caleb…
Lacoma, Haiti, was once seen as a village plagued by aridity and despair. A remarkable transformation has been taking place because of Fabienne’s team and the local church. Fabienne Goutier, a Haitian-American leader with an unyielding passion for medical missions, has dedicated herself to serving remote villages in her homeland.
An enriching and transformative Bible Camp was organized by David Slemin, which took place in beautiful Victoria, B.C., in May. David is one of our partners in Canada who runs an outreach ministry for the vulnerable on the streets of Victoria, British Columbia. This remarkable camp was specially crafted for vulnerable youth, aiming to equip them with essential life skills while sharing the love of God. The team saw several testimonies of healing and deliverance.
Peacemaking initiatives in Kenya are important as they provide a platform for dialogue, reconciliation and healing for people affected by conflict and violence. We are so grateful to Nigerian Ph.D. Dr. Dorcas Ettang, a Senior Lecturer in Conflict Transformation and Peace Studies Programme at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, for willing to provide solutions to some of the challenges KEDHAP is facing in their tribal peacemaking initiatives.
The event was held online on April 29, 2023. The audio recording is available in this blog post.
As we approach Mother’s Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the incredible role that mothers play in our lives. They are our caregivers, our teachers, and our biggest supporters. Unfortunately, not all children are blessed to have mothers or mother figures in their lives.
This Mother’s Day, would you like to change a child’s life by filling it with hope? Love starts with YOU!
This week is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of volunteers worldwide. Through their dedication and hard work, volunteers are making a positive impact in their local community and beyond. During this week, we are highlighting Melanie Magel’s story. Melanie started her journey with Tat’s Place, our children’s home in Puerto Maldonado, in 2019.
Ruth is a 15-year-old class eight girl from Songhor primary school supported by KEDHAP’s female empowerment program. Ruth’s mother, Cindy, is single with three children and takes care of her epileptic sister. Cindy does not have a job, and to provide for her family, she works as a casual labourer, weeding peoples’ farms.
Cindy says,” Your support of my daughter has saved me..”
Agatha and her husband had been married for almost twenty years when they received the miraculous news that Agatha was pregnant at the age of forty. They already had an older daughter and were shocked and apprehensive about the news. But tragic news followed..
Lilian had always dreamed of going to school. But in the rural village in Kenya where she was born, education was a luxury few could afford. Her parents were subsistence farmers, struggling to make ends meet and put food on the table. Lilian helped in the fields, tended crops, and cared for her younger siblings. She had resigned to a life of poverty and hardship with no hope of a better future.
But one day, everything changed. Shelter of Hope had come to her village, offering to help children like Lilian receive an education…
“Giving back to the community through volunteering is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had!” – Volunteer.
Volunteering for charities is one of the most impactful ways to make a positive difference in your community and beyond. Whether donating your time, skills, or resources, volunteering can profoundly impact both the individuals and the organizations you support.
Our partner, Marie Estelle, desires to see the rural community of Fort Jacques develop further. The need for community development has become ever more acute due to the rising cost of living stemming from the economic impacts of the pandemic. Despite these challenges, the staff in the school remain committed to providing the students with the best possible education. We are happy to introduce the team behind this wonderful initiative!
One thing that stands out this past year is this – the world is rapidly changing. As the cost of living is increasing all around us, we are shocked by the higher prices of commodities. 2022 has shown us again that when things are bleak and dire, people like you respond with open arms to do what is needed to meet the growing needs. The Annual Impact Report gives you a glimpse into 2022, the year that went by..
Love is the foundation of all charity work, as it motivates people to give their time, energy, and resources to help others in need. As we have observed in many projects, be it migrant worker ministry, female empowerment, community development or taking care of abandoned children, love is incredibly important. On Valentine’s Day, we’re looking back at some lovely couples involved with ImpactHope. Being surrounded by love can be extremely important during ministry work, whether from one’s partner, family and friends or the kindness of strangers such as the staff and patients.
Sustainability is crucial for clean water projects as it ensures that the project’s benefits are long-lasting and can be maintained over time. In 2019, ImpactHope committed to drilling a well in the Olkesumet Prayer Response Center. This water well will play a crucial role in providing the Maasai community with access to clean and safe drinking water and as a reliable source of water for irrigation, which is essential for agriculture. We are excited about Phase 3 of the project…
We believe that self-sustained and midterm projects like raising chickens will resolve the need for food security in Cubulco. A specialized team works with the local community to recover and promote endogenous agricultural production. The project incorporates the production of heritage chickens using local techniques and enable families to develop resources within their community, including the use of local grains…
Marisol was only twelve years old when her mother passed away, leaving her in the care of her stepfather. Her stepfather quickly found a new lady, and she did not want Marisol around. They would hit her and not feed her; she spoilt her own children while shunning Marisol. She knew she had to escape the abuse..
Brian and his family have travelled to Iquitos in Peru at their own expense in 2019 to assist Rodolfo in his ministry, experience life amongst the local people, and create a general awareness of their living conditions. Read Brian’s diary entry from then..
One of KEDHAP’s goals is to follow up on the adolescents under their support, understand the impact of their support on these children’s lives and listen to their stories. These impact stories focus on the impact of the support given to beneficiaries through the PLWHA’s Ministry. Read the stories of Cynthia, who is in eighth grade..
The Brilliant Minded Women Foundation has awarded ImpactHope as the Charity of the Year 2022 for our work in Kenya and our passion for helping and empowering communities to break the cycle of poverty. To be named Charity of the Year is a testament to that hard work and the successes achieved by our staff, volunteers, supporters, and partners worldwide.
We all look forward to Christmas – the weather, the festive air, the beautiful decorations, and the gifts! The holidays are the season of giving: giving love and giving thanks. The holidays are also about faith, showing appreciation, and helping those in need. Here are some ideas for Christmas gifts that make an impact!
ImpactHope has nominated Carolina to receive the Global Excellence Award at the annual Brilliant Minded Women Gala. We are privileged to work with Dr Juan Pablo and his wife Carolina, who are doing exceptional work for the community in Nebaj..
ImpactHope has nominated Lila Quezada to receive the Honorable Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Brilliant Minded Women Gala. ImpactHope’s Director of Development, Hannah Campbell, was privileged to chat with Lila and learn more about her extraordinary story..
Run for a vulnerable mama and bebe today! Support Casa Compasiva, a birthing centre for vulnerable mothers. When you run in solidarity, you call attention to those whose lives have been affected by poverty and injustice.
ImpactHope has nominated Evelyne to receive the Student of the Year Award at the annual Brilliant Minded Women Gala. ImpactHope’s Director of Development, Hannah Campbell, was privileged to chat with Evelyne and learn more about this exceptional young woman receiving the award!
‘We want freedom; we want life; we want to live, and we don’t want to [just] survive.’” – These are words spoken by a 17-year-old in Cuba.
ImpactHope supports two national couples living in Cuba. They are committed to reaching and serving their people, seeking to share the love of God with children, families..
One of KEDHAP’s goals is to follow up on the adolescents under their support, understand the impact of their support on these children’s lives and listen to their stories. Read how your support has changed Rosemary’s life, a four-year-old in Ogen, Kenya..
We want to take a moment to thank you for giving the gift of HOPE! Through your generosity and prayers, hope continues to be given to so many people in need. We are SO excited to share our summer NEWSLETTER FOR 2022! We’ve highlighted stories of inspiration, stories of blessings, and stories of lives you have made an impact on!
Seventeen-year-old Nahua is in labor and accidentally relieves herself while in her hospital bed. Though it smells bad, and she is humiliated, she is not allowed to have another gown, nor her bedsheet changed. She labors on in shame in a room full of fifteen people. Presently she is moved to the delivery room, where the chief doctor comes in laughing, does a massive episiotomy…
One of KEDHAP’s goals is to follow up on the adolescents under their support, understand the impact of their support on these children’s lives and listen to their stories. Read the stories of Jerusa and Bernard who are members of the ‘Support Groups’ in Tamu and Ogen Comprehensive Care Clinics…
“I was struck this time in Cuba.
It was like I was hit so hard; that I could not stop weeping. I was moved to great tears. Tears of humility that I was standing in the presence of saints as I realized how little I have suffered compared to them and how much greater I have complained. Tears flowed from hearing the personal stories of the hardship, tears of sadness, sorrow, and utter grief of the suffering of people – the despair of a nation…”
“Bonjour! M’rele Jean. I am three years old. I live in Fort Jacques, Haiti. You have made a big difference in my life! I want to thank you for helping me to go to school. I do not have anything to play with at my little house, so I run to school every morning because I want to play with the toys there. I feel loved by my teacher, and she’s taught me how to hold a pencil…
In 2018, KEDHAP launched a Microfinance and Food security program targeting women groups and did a pilot program in partnership with our development partners. KEDHAP has been focusing on gender-responsive budgeting and financial management, including maximized agricultural productivity…
Ella wiped her brow as she gathered some firewood in the sweltering heat. Her two most time-consuming activities included fetching water and firewood. Widespread deforestation had made these tasks more burdensome and prevented Ella from devoting more time to their more productive and income-generating tasks…
Empty classrooms, empty desks,…and an empty little heart. Little Emma peered out her window and sighed. Her little heart was breaking because it had been so long since she saw her friends. Going to school meant more than just learning to read…
Great Eggs-pectations Sustainable agriculture is crucial for countries experiencing food insecurity and malnutrition. Raising broiler chickens is becoming more popular in Swaziland as people try
A Need for Adequate Nourishment About 47% of the Kenyan population does not have reliable access to food resources to adequately meet their daily needs.
From Darkness to Light Angela is a shy and friendly little fifth grader studying at the Oneno-nam Primary School, Kenya. Being an orphan, she struggled
Let the Little Children Come! Since 2003, ImpactHope has worked together with our partners to reach and impact people in two areas of Cuba. While
2021 Executive Director Report “Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done.” (1 Chronicles 16:8)
When Water becomes Life… Emma squinted in the sun as she bent down at the water hole. She plunged her plastic canister into the murky
Say Hola to the Kids “We want to bring His children home, to Christ, to eternity, into God’s family, to a home where they are loved.” Tat’s
How KEDHAP changed Evelyn’s Life “Most often than not, it takes only one person to believe in you and make you see the light…” –
What Is #GivingTuesday? GivingTuesday is a global day of giving. After the sales of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, GivingTuesday is a time to celebrate
Click Here to Download the Gifts of Hope 2021 Catalogue. Giving Gifts of Hope this Holiday Season! Every year, as we step into the season
“Poverty Isn’t Defeated By Wealth… It’s Defeated By HOPE!” We want to take a moment to thank you for giving the gift of HOPE! It
400 Desks Are Needed This Year And So Far, You’ve Helped Purchase 93 Desks! Thank You! Back in August, we put out an ask to
An Exciting Update from the Hospital in Nebaj, Guatemala! The look of the hospital (Servicios Medicos Vida y Esperanza) is taking shape! We are so
Read the Latest Hogar Genesis Report The Meaning of HOPE to a Child Born Into the Cycle of Poverty Due to its isolation and remoteness,
What Is ‘Healthcare Aide Day’?It is a day devoted to healthcare workers and assistants in appreciation for their relentless help and selfless service to the
The Grace Project Africa -> The Grace Project International (TGPI)The Grace Project International (TGPI), formerly known as The Grace Project-Africa (TGP-A), is excited to announce
Ministry in Kenya – In Partnership with KEDHAP in Kisumu County Region: People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) September 2021 Report The ministry of
KEDHAP’S Education Impact Stories: Syprine’s TestimonySyprine’s ChildhoodSyprine’s’ parents passed away while she was in grade four. She was brought up by an uncle who always
Education In Huehuetenango, Guatemala: Desk Fundraiser Fuente De Amor Project (Source of Love Project) & Bethel School After many years of praying for a project
About Tat’s Kids In Puerto Maldonado our project is Alegre Sonido de Dios, a home for children of all ages who have suffered at the
Tat’s Kids Fundraiser: In Memory of Tatiana’s 3rd Anniversary (December 2, 1997 – August 17, 2018) Tat’s Place Was Built In Her Memory “From a
A Thank You From The Director: Your Partnership Is Changing Lives! “It’s hard to believe that the new school year is just around the corner.
Table of Contents (Click the article you want to read) An Update On The Last 3 Months at Shelter of Hope “It has been just
Table of Contents (Click the article you want to read) July At Tat’s Place (An Update from the Blackburns) The theme in 2021 at Tat’s
Table of Contents (Click the article you want to read) Providing Health & Hope In Guatemala As the construction of the new Hospital building continues,
Many people gave generously to our appeal for Laundry and Security Upgrades at Casa Compasiva! Here’s what the staff from Casa Compasiva had to say:
This is a story of a Woman who served almost 25 years in prison that should have received a sentence of 8 years or less…
We Welcome Our New Partners: Alejandro & Kathryn Ortiz On July 15, 2021, Alejandro and Kathryn Ortiz and their 4 children will return to Cubulco
ADDAH’S STORY Addah is a 14-year-old girl who is 1 in over 4,000 female students that have benefitted from both KEDHAP’s Student Sponsorship and Sanitary Distribution Programs.
MVC entered into 2020 with hopes of continued growth, impact, and renewal. And then, the COVID-19 crisis began … As with many charities across Canada,
Casa Compasiva (Compassion House) is a Christian Birthing Center in Oaxaca, Mexico that provides a safe and caring environment for young mothers and their new
THE GRACE PROJECT-AFRICA (April 2021 Updates) As I write this, we are all celebrating the Passover – the period in time where Jesus gave His
Thank you so much for your unwavering and generous support towards Project Hope in Iquitos, Peru. Depending on the funds raised, we are hoping to open up
Alleviating Poverty Through Education ““With the loss of our largest child sponsorship donors in 2020, the additional special attention by MVC’s employee Hannah, to the
Shelter of Hope – Education (Kenya & Nairobi) After a year-long pause on education in Kenya in 2020, Shelter of Hope Academy’s doors have opened
The Grace Project – Africa (Lusaka, Zambia) “As we look back over the past year the dominant story has been Covid-19. As we experience Covid
December 2020 Updates If you would like to give a Gift of Life this Christmas / Make a Year-End Donation, Click Here! “Dear Friends,
NOVEMBER 2020 UPDATES Hlalisile’s Chicken Project – Swaziland In Swaziland, Hlalisile runs a Place of Safety which was funded monthly by small donations. Aside from
Download The 2020 Fall Newsletter (With The 2020 Gifts of Life Catalogue) Covid-19 has had a huge impact on the world’s poor. With many
Message from MVC’s Director Brad Wilson Eight months ago, none of us could have imagined anything like COVID-19! Many people have been impacted financially, mentally,
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have
“THE HOUR” (formerly called “Happy Hour”) THURSDAY JUNE 25th 7 PM EDT JOIN US FOR OUR PRE-SUMMER SESSION SEVERAL MISSIONARIES FROM DIFFERENT LOCATIONS WILL BE
MAY 2020 UPDATES Peru, Puerto Maldonado, Peru – Scott and Tracy For many weeks now the Blackburn’s and Tat’s Kids have been taking food to
A Personal Message from the Director ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Palma Soriano, Cuba Jorge & Sandra are our Missionary Reps from Palma Soriano and
HAPPY HOUR Session #1: Juan Pablo & Carolina Do you want to be more connected with the Missionaries you have been supporting? Or do you
HAPPY HOUR (Online Sessions) Do you want to be more connected with the Missionaries you have been supporting? Or do you want to simply know
Dear Friends & Family of MVC, Over the years, MVC has been committed to seeing lives changed. This is still the case today. Our desire
MISSIONARY UPDATES DURING COVID:19 Juan Pablo & Carolina Noriega – Nebaj, Guatemala – Juan Pablo and Carolina’s family are doing well and are staying
Empowered Women, Empower Women! – Nebaj, Guatemala – In 2014, MVC committed to building a hospital to provide quality healthcare to this remote
WINTER 2020 NEWSLETTER Our hearts are filled with inexpressible joy in what God has been doing. We are humbled by your generous partnership in 2019
January Team Report from Palma Soriano – Palma Soriano, Cuba – In our January update, we mentioned that a team would be going to serve
Grand Opening of Tat’s Place: January 30, 2020! – Puerto Maldonado, Peru – The grand opening of Tat’s Place (also known as Alegre Sonido de
Our Dessert Social & Fundraiser for 2019 Was a Success, Thanks to you! On November 22nd & 23rd, we had two separate Dessert Social &
Stories Of Faith & Struggle: Migrant Workers In Ontario Dear Partners in Ministry; “It is a privilege to share some of the things that have
Isaac & Fer Quezada Originally from a small town in Oregon, Isaac’s family moved to Oaxaca Mexico where his parents served as missionaries for 18
Brian and Muriel Windsor have been serving in Zambia for 7 years. They have registered a Zambian non-profit called ‘The Grace Project’ to give training
Well-Well-Well We are continuing to bring awareness towards the Maasai Community in Kenya. Not only do the Maasai walk 45 minutes to get water but
WHAT IS THE PLAN? “For all the Christians wondering what God’s ultimate plan is to end suffering, oppression, starvation, and racism: it is the church.
We Want YOU To Be More Involved! MVC is excited to announce that we are changing our donor software! Please be patient with us
JUSTICE FOR ANTONIO: RECENT UPDATE We’ve received an update about Antonio, a Christian man who was falsely accused and imprisoned in 2013. Appeals were submitted
NEBAJ, GUATEMALA – APRIL 2019 TEAM A team of 26 went to Nebaj, Guatemala with hopes of working on the hospital more and to partake
