Growing Seeds of Hope

September 22, 2024 - click here to support the continuing work at MOHI.

As I look at the faces of the children in the START NOW Early Childhood Intervention programs in St. Etienne and Thozin, my heart is filled with joy and gratitude. These little ones are growing strong, healthy, and full of energy—something that was not the case when we first met many of them.

Thanks to your support, these precious lives are being nourished and loved, day by day. It’s a reminder of God’s provision and the amazing difference that dedicated care can make in a child’s life.

While the children are flourishing, the work continues on many other fronts as well. In Thozin, Wilson has been hard at work preparing a much-needed shade covering for our fish pond.

This is just one of the many behind-the-scenes projects that contribute to the sustainability of our community. Every small step forward matters as we create an environment where life can thrive.

Our partnership with Bless Back Worldwide continues to be a source of hope for so many. The medical and dental clinics have been bustling with activity.

From routine checkups to critical dental work, lives are being touched every day. I’m especially grateful for Asley, our lab tech, who works tirelessly to ensure that each patient gets the care they need.

Her dedication is such a blessing to our community, as she brings compassion and excellence to everything she does.

Seeing Dr. Derival at work reminds me of the love and care that goes into every interaction at our clinic.

It’s not just about fixing teeth—it’s about restoring dignity and hope to those who might otherwise go without care. Each patient who walks through our doors reminds us of why we do what we do. (FYI, those terrified looks do change by the time they leave.)

This image resonates profoundly with me. We sometimes feel lost or alone, but God, in His infinite grace, never stops pursuing us. He is a loving Father, always ready to bring us back into His arms when we’ve wandered off. I know that same loving pursuit drives us to reach out to the communities we serve, to love them as God loves us.

In the Dominican Republic, we are witnessing the same spirit of hope and determination. Mayo has been faithfully accompanying young Isaiah, who is suffering from three painful hernias, to the doctor in an effort to get him the surgery he desperately needs.

Please join us in praying that Isaiah is finally accepted for surgery next week. His journey has been long, but we trust that God is working even in the waiting.

On a more joyful note, we have exciting news! A generous donor has offered to match $10,000 in donations to help us purchase new vans in the Dominican Republic. These vans are essential for transporting food, children, and teams to where they are needed most.

But here’s where you come in: If we can find sponsors for the remaining 42 babies in the START NOW program, we’ll receive another $10,000! For just $30 a month, you can provide meals, vitamins, and healthcare support for a baby—and help us reach our goal of obtaining $20,000 toward new vans. Please pray and consider choosing to sponsor a baby. Your support truly makes a life-changing difference.

Marlouse, our Community Health Promoter, continues to be a ray of light in the villages of Baraguana, Cambiaso, and La Grúa.

Her dedication to these communities is inspiring, as she provides care and love to those in need.

One of the highlights this week was watching Marlouse and Lucy prepare highly nutritious meals from Against Global Hunger for the START NOW participants.

The little ones absolutely love the food, and we are so grateful for this partnership that ensures they are getting the nourishment they need.

In La Grúa, Mayo has been working diligently on the water project, and we are thrilled to share that both water and electricity have been brought to and connected to the water house.

This week, we will connect the system—please pray for everything to go smoothly. Water is life, and this project is a game-changer for the people of La Grúa. Mayo recently recorded a video thanking Mission of Hope International for all the work being done for the village.

In the background, you can see people gathering water in buckets—such a simple act, but one that will transform their daily lives.

The Bless Back Business Academy in Luperón is empowering local entrepreneurs with practical tools for success.

Led by Aquilina, our dedicated coach, these classes build confidence, foster community, and inspire participants to grow their businesses. The progress is exciting, and we look forward to seeing how these entrepreneurs will continue to bless their communities.

As we look ahead, we’re also planning our End of Year Event, MOHI’s Impact Dinner. Stay tuned for exciting details coming soon! It will be a night to reflect on the year’s progress and to look forward to the incredible things God has in store for 2025.

In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Whether you are sponsoring a child, praying for our communities, or giving your time and resources, you are making a difference.

Together, we are sowing seeds of hope that will continue to bear fruit for years to come. We are truly better together, and I’m so thankful to be on this journey with you.