Zambia (MNN) ― The government of Zambia says over 100,000 children die every year before reaching their fifth birthday. Poverty, starvation, abuse, and AIDS are the most likely culprits to steal their lives.
Kids Alive International began a project in Zambia in 1999, with a visit by members of the Kids Alive Canada Board who were aware of the devastating impact of the AIDS crisis on the children of the country.
Today, Kids Alive Vice President of Operations Matt Parker says their ministry is helping to provide hope and a future for these kids. They have six children's homes, three community schools, and care center programs in other parts of Zambia. There's always room for more. "We were recently given land in Mongu, in western Zambia, by the government. We've just opened our first children's home on this piece of land."
The dedication of the home took place just six weeks ago, and it provides a safe refuge for 18 children who were on the streets before being rescued.
The children and staff of Kids Alive Zambia were joined by the members of a Work Team from the U.S. for a celebration and the June 29 dedication of the new Home. Everyone participated in praising God for His faithfulness, the children shared sketches and speeches that they had prepared to mark the occasion, and after the cutting of the ribbon and a tour around the Home, everybody enjoyed cake and drinks.
During the dedication ceremony, one of the older boys shared: "We are so thankful to the Lord Jesus for saving us and for this beautiful Home He has given to us. We pray that His beauty will be reflected in our lives as we serve Him!"
Kids Alive hopes to expand further in the near future. Parker explains, "Over the next few years, we hope to be able to construct another five homes, a school, and a community program in what we're calling the 'Lilato Children's Village' in Mongu."
Lilato means "love." And love helps the children in their team's care reach their potential. "Our goal is to provide each of these children with a quality education and to introduce them to the transforming power of Jesus," says Parker.
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