Orphans

It seemed like every time I passed a beggar on the street, especially the kids, the Father was pressing me to do something, and He wouldn't let up. I asked you to be thinking of me as I explored some effective, sustainable ways of helping our fellow man in this demographic.

Titus and I have begun working with orphans in Changsha. There's another expat org here that has receiving a bunch of kids to young adults, coming out of the gov'ts orphanage, for whom they have exclusive care. All of the kids are disabled. They've been abandoned by their families. This org is graciously allowing me to participate in a couple of their projects, a couple times per week.

One of the projects is a bright, colorful, and clean facility for higher-functioning individuals. Teens and young adults learn a trade, like jewelry-making, embroidery, or card-making. Their work is then sold. They are able to live semi-independently. I hear that the government is shocked and impressed to observe that these individuals are able to contribute to society. Under the government's system, they would be considered invalids. This facility also has housing for younger kids, many who are blind, and brilliant therapy rooms. You would be impressed at the quality of care and therapy! You would love the residents, too -- warm and friendly.

Second project is basically an orphanage for lower-functioning youngsters. Most of these are confined to bed or a seat. They also have great facilities and special therapy. My role here is to exposed these kids to different sensory experiences, get to know them, make them feel loved. The boys and girls really enjoy our singing and guitar music, or watching baby Titus run around. Would you believe that this place is located two bus stops (5 minutes) from our campus gate? Of all the places in Changsha...it's unbelievably close.

Third project, briefly, is a center that aims to prevent abandonment by supporting families with disabled children. They provide training, support and classes for kids/parents who are at risk for abandonment. They asked me to paint a mural on the wall. I'm doing kites.



Thanks again for uplifting me. I feel that our asking has been answered!

Rachel