Those words pierced our hearts. We knew the hellish life on the streets, full of neglect, abuse and fear this tiny 4-year-old girl had just come from. But we also felt great relief, knowing that life was behind her; she was now starting a new life, thanks in part to you for helping to make her rescue possible.
In our fall update we could only tell you about her recent rescue. We told you about her parents who were unwilling to leave their life as drug users and dealers. For months we tried to help them break free and change so we could keep the family together, but to no avail.
During that time we watched their situation closely, as we knew the day might come that we would have to move quickly to protect their children from further abuse and neglect—or trafficking. Local officials, too, won’t give the green light for removing a child into our custody until we can prove that child is in imminent danger.
Sadly, that day came, but we rejoiced that we were able to rescue her in time. And now a few months later we want to tell you how “Joy” (the fitting nickname we gave her to protect her identity) has been thriving since!
Joy looked the size of a 2-year-old rather than 4, because she didn’t get the nutrition her little body needed. But she’s been busy eating to catch up! She’s been amazed by the plentiful food available at Hope House (our residential care home for rescued children), not to mention having more than one set of clothes—that get washed regularly! And then there was that first-ever shower. The list of “firsts” was long, and is ongoing.
It wasn’t long after Joy arrived at Hope House that she was heard to say, “I’m so excited to go to school,” and “I’m so happy to live in a safe place where I can sleep well.” She also told us how grateful she was to not have to sleep on the streets where she would always be wet during the rainy season. During her short time with us Joy has also discovered how much she enjoys playing games, reading, listening to music, and dancing, which she is often spotted doing on her own.
Early on Joy expressed surprise when caregivers at Hope House didn’t strike children for misbehaving. She thought this very strange because she was accustomed to regular physical beatings from her mother, who was often very violent.
That brings us to Joy’s most important “first”—being loved. Soaking up love and care for the first time has caused her to blossom like a spring flower! Asa result, she brings joy and a smile to all who meet her. And we’re super-excited that she learns each day about the greatest love of all that comes from Jesus.
We can’t help but be hopeful about Joy’s future—one made possible through your compassion. Although you may live half a world away, you participated in Joy’s rescue through your generous expressions of love through this ministry. Thank you!