As the curtains closed on 2024, we at Hope 4 Liberia stand in awe of the goodness of God and the outpouring of His provision. The year was one of hopeful beginnings, heartfelt victories, and the undeniable presence of His faithfulness. From dedicating our orphanage compound to welcoming 14 double orphans into their new homes, 2024 will forever be etched in our hearts as a year of “firsts”.
Laying the Foundation of Hope
The year began with an incredible milestone—the dedication of our five-acre compound in Liberia. The compound, a haven of love and restoration, was established with a boys’ home, a girls’ home, a giant hut for community activities, a solar-powered water system, and a secure perimeter fence. These facilities were just the start of what would become a vibrant place for healing, growth, and new beginnings.
In February and March, a team of volunteers from the USA arrived to help prepare the compound for the children. Their hands-on work included constructing a playground, building bookshelves, fencing the goat ranch, and equipping the compound for its grand opening. They also spent valuable time mentoring and warming up the local Liberian team for the monumental task ahead—caring for 14 double orphans.
Welcoming the Children
March 22 marked a pivotal moment in our ministry as Hope 4 Liberia officially opened its doors to 14 double orphans under the age of 14. These precious children came from circumstances of abandonment, starvation, and abuse. For the first time, they were welcomed into a family where they could experience unconditional love and care.
Over the months, we watched these children flourish in countless ways. A tentative schooling program was put in place to provide them with foundational education. Alongside their studies, we celebrated birthdays, holidays, and achievements—moments that many of these children had never experienced before.
Growing Through Stewardship
Our ministry expanded significantly in 2024 with the addition of a farm, a clinic, and a school.
1. The Farm:
The farm became a cornerstone of sustainability for the ministry. Producing vegetables, cassava, plantain, and other crops, it now supplies the orphanage kitchen with fresh food. Additionally, the farm expanded to include poultry, goats, snails, rabbits, and a piggery currently under construction. Beyond feeding the children, the farm serves as a platform to teach life skills, helping them cultivate values of hard work and stewardship.
2. The Clinic:
Our clinic, supervised by missionary volunteer Jami Kibler, has been vital in meeting the health needs of the children and staff. From treating illnesses like malaria, typhoid, and diarrhea to partnering with local organizations for dental, optical and surgical care, the clinic has become a beacon of health and hope. This year, all 14 children received dental care for the first time in their lives. Mobile outreach programs are currently underway to serve nearby communities/villages.
3. The School:
The last quarter of the year saw the launch of the Hope 4 Liberia Christian Academy, a mastery-based learning program for children who had never attended school before. Missionaries Jim and Janelle Hendrens joined us as school administrators, and under the guidance of educational expert Laurie Wagner, the school began transforming lives.
The curriculum integrates academics with biblical teachings, equipping the children with a Christ-centered worldview. Additionally, life skills training has become an integral part of the program, involving activities such as farming, kitchen management, crocheting, and grounds maintenance. Today, half of the children are reading and solving basic math problems—a testament to God’s grace.
Building for the Future
As the year progressed, we witnessed God’s provision in remarkable ways. Funding for staff housing was secured, and construction is set to begin soon under the supervision of Jim Hendrens. This housing will accommodate our growing team, who serve the children with passion and dedication.
From just a few volunteers, our staff has grown into a vibrant team with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Their collective efforts have made the orphanage a place of safety, joy, and growth for the
children.
A Season of Firsts
This year was truly a season of firsts. For all of our children, it was their first time celebrating birthdays, attending school, and experiencing the joy of Christmas and New Year festivities. As Janelle Hendrens so beautifully said, “2024 was the year of firsts at the orphanage.”
These moments of joy and growth are a reflection of God’s faithfulness and the unwavering support of our partners around the world. Through your prayers, encouragement, and generosity, we have been able to provide these children with a loving family, a safe home, and a hopeful future.
Looking Ahead
As we step into 2025, our hearts are filled with gratitude and anticipation. We trust the Lord to continue guiding us as we expand our ministry to touch even more lives. Our vision is to become self-sustaining through our farm, offer advanced healthcare services through our clinic, and provide quality education that nurtures both the mind and spirit.
We remain steadfast in our mission to care for orphans in Liberia and beyond, knowing that God’s plans are always good and full of hope. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Together, we are making a difference—one life at a time.
To God be the glory for all He has done!
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