Restoring Hope Blog

From Rooted to Rising: Nabil's Story

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 20:28:23 GMT

When Nabil* was just four years old, his father left the family after years of instability and violence in the home. In the wake of that abandonment, his mother did everything she could to hold things together. She moved in with her parents and worked long hours simply to provide the basics.

For years, life for Nabil was marked by uncertainty. School became inconsistent—a common reality for families in rural South Asia facing similar circumstances.

And so, Nabil’s future felt very much in question.

But through a relationship with a local pastor and the support of a Restoring Hope social worker, Nabil and his family were connected to our family-based care.

And slowly, over time, things began to change.

Nabil is now back in school, thriving academically and recently ranking near the top of his class and setting his sights even higher. His family is no longer navigating hardship alone, but is connected to a local church where they are known, supported, and growing in their faith.

What once felt fragile has begun to take on a new kind of stability.

This is what we mean when we talk about being rooted.

When a child is given the opportunity to be rooted in this way, over time, they begin to rise into who God created them to be. And that's exactly what Nabil is beginning to experience as he continues in Restoring Hope's care.

But this kind of transformation doesn’t happen quickly, and it doesn’t happen without steady, ongoing support.

Today, our Restoring Hope community is walking alongside more than 800 children and their families. Each one is at a different point in that journey—some just beginning to be rooted, others already rising into what God has for them.

And that's why our team of financial partners is so critical to the work we do in South Asia. These donors ensure that every one of these children continues to receive the care they need . . . through family, discipleship in the local church, and access to education.

Whether you've never made a donation to Restoring Hope before, or if you're one who gives regularly, would you consider a special gift toward our Rooted & Rising campaign with a special gift today?

Your donation today of $50, $150, $500—or whatever amount is meaningful to you—helps provide the steady, holistic care that makes stories like Nabil’s possible. It allows children not only to recover from what they’ve walked through, but to move forward into lives marked by purpose, stability, and hope.

Together, we will see something remarkable unfold: Children being rooted in love and care, and over time, rising into the fullness of all God created them for. Thank you!

How Pascal’s Faith Relates to Restoring Hope’s Partners

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:53:09 GMT

Pascal is best known for what we call “Pascal’s Wager,” which essentially says, “believing in God is the most rational bet because the potential gains are infinite (eternity with God) while the potential losses are finite (a few earthly pleasures).

In other words, if God exists, believers gain everything; if God does not exist, believers lose very little.

This so-called wager came to Pascal’s mind after a “night of fire,” where he spent a couple hours in the presence of God.

After the experience, Pascal claimed his life was never the same. Yet he lived in a heavily Christianized culture, where the vast majority of people followed the customs and values of Christianity whether or not they had genuinely surrendered their lives to the Lordship of Christ.

So how can we know Pascal’s transformation after his “night of fire” was genuine? Especially in light of his infamous wager?

The short answer is: We can tell by the way his life changed thereafter.

In fact, four key indications of Pascal’s transformed life were recently described in Plough Quarterly--indications I can’t help but consider when reflecting on my own transformation in Christ. They are:

1. A deep desire for ongoing prayer and worship

2. A radical awareness of his sin

3. A longing to share with others his faith experience

4. A significant shift in his priorities and life to care for the poor

And it’s that last one in particular that reminds me of our Restoring Hope partners—people like you who have made significant shifts in your priorities and lives so that 800 orphaned and vulnerable children in rural South Asia can also experience transformation in Jesus.

The fact that you entrust some of your time and/or your finances to God and to Restoring Hope for the sake of families entrenched in cycles of generational poverty, is an indication of the authenticity of your own hope in Jesus. I am truly grateful.

And since you’re here, I have to ask: Did you know our Restoring Hope blog is filled with stories of children’s lives you have helped impact? I invite you to check out one or two while you’re here, and be encouraged by what you’re part of!

From Fatherless to Future Leader: Shanti's Story

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 19:25:01 GMT

At just six years old, Shanti’s life was on a path far too common in rural villages of South Asia. After losing his father, his family struggled to survive. The dream of an education seemed impossible, and his future was clouded by the harsh realities faced by orphaned and vulnerable children in his village.

But Shanti’s story did not end with heartbreak—because someone stepped in.

When his grandmother reached out to a local Restoring Hope pastor, everything changed. Shanti was welcomed into the care of his extended family, supported by a local church, and given the opportunity to attend school—something his family could never have provided on their own.

Fast forward to today, and Shanti has graduated from college with a pharmacy degree. He’s working at a pharmacy and dreaming of opening his own, bringing affordable healthcare to his village and lifting up his community.

This is what Restoring Hope is about: Helping children not just survive—but thrive, grow in faith, and become leaders who give back to their communities.

Most of the children we serve are the first in their families to graduate from high school, attend college, and step into meaningful careers—finally breaking free from the cycle of poverty that has gripped their families for generations.

Like Shanti, it’s common for Restoring Hope graduates to return to their rural villages—not just to succeed, but to give back. Many go on to serve as pastors or social workers, bringing lasting change to their communities. Having personally experienced the transforming love of Jesus, they are passionate about helping other children and families discover the same hope.

We are grateful for our Restoring Hope partners who make life transformations like Shanti's possible!

Nearly Dead Now Fully Alive: Sevy's Story

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:54:34 GMT

After both of his parents committed suicide, Sevy—just a first grader—was left in the care of his grandfather.

Sevy had been born into a “backwards caste,” a tribal group living off the radar in rural India. Like many in his community, his early life was filled with instability, abuse, and fear. His father was an alcoholic who beat his mother. His home was no place for a child to thrive—or even survive.

A CHILD LEFT FOR DEAD

One night, Sevy was found unconscious in the streets of his village. He was barely alive.

LIVING HIS DREAMS

Today, Sevy is a university graduate, a lab technician, and married. He was baptized in 2019, and dreams of becoming a doctor.

What once seemed impossible is now Sevy’s reality—and it all started when people like you chose to partner with Restoring Hope. Would you consider helping another child like Sevy? Give a life-giving gift of any size here.

A Life Turned Around: Ravi Babu's Story

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:39:17 GMT

Ravi Babu was just eight years old when he lost his father to complications from paralysis—a devastating blow for any child. And his grandfather had already passed a few years before that, so the small family was left without male support or protection in their rural South Asian village.

With his two older brothers sent off to a government-run boarding school, Ravi Babu and his mother were left alone—isolated, grieving, and vulnerable.

Things looked bleak.

But then, hope stepped in.

A local village pastor connected with Restoring Hope heard Ravi Babu’s story and stepped in to help.

Soon, Ravi Babu was welcomed into our network of care. And because of our commitment to keeping families together whenever possible, Ravi Babu was able to remain in his mother’s home, surrounded by love, stability, and now, support from the local church.

A LIFE TURNED AROUND

In just a short time, Ravi Babu'’s life turned around. Today, he has regular meals, access to education, a growing relationship with Jesus, and a mother who no longer has to carry the weight of survival on her own.

Ravi Babu is one of 800 children experiencing this kind of life-change through Restoring Hope. Our partners make ongoing care for these youngsters possible. Will you do the same for even more children with a donation today?

A Caregiver's Dilemma: Sumani's Story

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:38:48 GMT

So often we hear about orphaned and vulnerable children “falling through the cracks” of broken systems. At Restoring Hope, we believe those cracks are created by impossible choices—choices made by loving caregivers who are doing everything they can to help their families survive.

Sumani’s* story reminds us that for many families in rural South Asia, survival is a way of life. And without education and support, children can become trapped in a cycle of poverty that is almost impossible to escape.

A CHILDHOOD SHATTERED

After years of domestic violence, Sumani’s childhood was shattered when her mother died while she was still very young. Soon after, her father abandoned the family. When he later passed away in an accident, Sumani and her brother were left entirely in the care of their aging grandmother.

Grief, instability, and uncertainty became part of everyday life.

For her grandmother, raising grandchildren was not only an emotional burden—it was an economic one. With no social or financial safety net and with her own health declining due to cancer and diabetes, she faced heartbreaking decisions. Sending Sumani to work as a domestic helper felt like a necessary survival strategy. Later, the pressure turned toward early marriage, not as a loss of Sumani’s dreams, but as a desperate attempt to ensure protection and security for her future.

PICKING UP THE PIECES

This is where Restoring Hope’s family-based care and locally led solutions make a lasting difference.

Through our long-term presence and partnership with the local church, Sumani’s family was not overlooked. Local pastors and social workers came alongside her grandmother with dignity, practical support, and discipleship. They addressed the financial pressures that made child labor and early marriage feel unavoidable and provided the emotional and spiritual encouragement needed to protect Sumani’s education.

Instead of removing a child from her family, we strengthened the family—helping a caregiver remain at the center of her granddaughter’s life while building a path toward self-sufficiency and hope.

A GOOD KIND OF BROKEN

Today, Sumani is a top-performing college student. She is pursuing vocational training while also working toward a degree through distance learning, and she dreams of one day working in finance. Most importantly, she no longer views her future through fear, but with confidence—and her faith in Jesus continues to grow.

This is what breaking cycles of poverty looks like. When local leaders lead the change, when families are supported rather than separated, and when education and discipleship are protected, children like Sumani are given the opportunity not just to survive—but to thrive."

In Christ, God Draws Near: Hasini's Story

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 15:28:46 GMT

Hasini* is a young girl from a rural, economically vulnerable family that recently experienced severe tragedy (along with emotional and financial hardship). Hasini’s father, a mason who struggled with addiction and deteriorating mental health, tragically passed away in February of this year.

His death left the family devastated and without any stable source of income.

Following this tragedy, all of the responsibility fell on Hasini’s mother. She worked in a granite quarry, enduring harsh conditions to provide basic needs, yet their living conditions remained unsafe and unstable.

Pictured: Hasani and her mother

Through a local pastor, Hasini’s mother learned about Restoring Hope, and soon after this, the family was embraced by the local village church for all the essential and holistic care Restoring Hope provides.

Today, Hasini is receiving the support she needs to ensure her schooling continues, along with counseling and an introduction to Jesus’ love to help her heal from the trauma of her father's death.

Hasini’s story is a testament to why family-based care and local church assistance is so vital for orphaned and vulnerable children and their families.

And it reminds us why we celebrate Christ's birth: In Jesus, God came near to humanity. And He calls us to do the same—to draw near to the hurting and offer them hope.

Pictured: A Restoring Hope social worker meets with Hasini and her mother

A Restoring Hope Marriage: Bayani's Story

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:18:31 GMT

Years ago, after the passing of her father and before Restoring Hope implemented our family-based care model of orphan care, Bayani* joined our children’s home called Ketama* Home. There she found the stability, love, care, and educational support she desperately needed.

Today, Bayani is fulfilling the promise she made to her late mother: She is in her final year of earning her a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Nursing at a local college. This promised kept very likely would not have been possible without the support of Restoring Hope’s network of care.

And this past August, we celebrated another beautiful new chapter for Bayani: a wedding! Having spoken to her husband and mother-in-law before the wedding about finishing her studies, she entered her marriage with their full support. Bayani is now happily wed and continues to pursue her life-transforming education.

We rejoice how her community of support, her faith, and her academic dedication—all nurtured by the generosity of Restoring Hope’s donors—have led her to this joyful milestone.

Incarnation & Adoption: Our Why

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:18:15 GMT

Did you know that whenever you reach out in Jesus’ name to care for someone in need, or serve a person in your life, you’re living out the Christian theological doctrines of incarnation and adoption?

Along with Scripture’s 34 distinct references that say to care for orphans, the doctrines of incarnation and adoption are foundational to why we at Restoring Hope do what we do.

These doctrines drive the daily work of Restoring Hope, and transform simple of acts of service into obedience to God’s will for us in carrying out our ministry’s mission. And today I felt compelled to share with you a little more.

INCARNATION

The doctrine of incarnation —that God in Jesus Christ took on human flesh—is the ultimate model for serving others and participating in any type of ministry. God, in his infinite glory, did not remain distant and untouchable, but descended into the world of human vulnerability and need. This divine drawing near established the foundational pattern for all Christian service: We are called to go down, to enter the mess, and to meet the vulnerable exactly where they are.

When Restoring Hope pastors, staff, and partners like you care for a child and family who have faced tragedy and are not sure where to turn, we are echoing the Word made flesh. This descending love speaks to the inherent dignity of every person we care for in our network of 800 children and families.

ADOPTION

The doctrine of adoption describes our spiritual transformation through Christ where we are granted a new identity as a child of God. The biblical mandate to care for orphans and widows is simply the practical application of God’s making us his own. Our spiritual adoption compels us to live out that grace on earth by providing care, love and restoration to those who are currently struggling with physical, educational, social, emotional, and spiritual needs.

34 TIMES

Did you catch that?

We are told in Scripture to care for the orphaned child 34 times. In fact, 30 of the 34 we are told to “care for the orphan and widow.” Because together they are the most vulnerable in a society, both then and now.

By providing orphaned and vulnerable children and families support in the home, quality education, and pastoral loving care, we are together proclaiming this gospel: That God is not distant, that he values the vulnerable, and that he is in the business of restoration and hope.

When you partner with Restoring Hope through prayer, giving, or advocacy, you’re not only answering that biblical call—you’re joining a story of transformation that echoes adoption itself. Every young person who comes through our care has experienced what it means to be seen, loved, and given a future. Thank you for being part of it.

Pictured: A social worker with Restoring Hope cares for the physical, educational, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of these children. Here you see them engaged with God’s Word during a recent summer gathering.

Taj's Story

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:06:48 GMT

Fourteen-year-old Taj has a bright smile and a big dream: He wants to become a doctor! He is currently studying in sixth grade, and, despite many struggles, remains eager to learn and determined to not let past grief and hardship hold him back.

When he was just five years old, Taj’s father abandoned the family. Since then, his mother has been his only support. She works tirelessly as a housemaid, doing everything she can to ensure her son’s education continues. Their situation is made even harder because they have no supportive relatives or neighbors to lean on.

A local Restoring Hope pastor couple noticed Taj’s family predicament. Last June, when the opportunity came to welcome new children into Restoring Hope, they advocated for Taj.

Working closely with this pastor couple and our social workers, Taj and his mother are now experiencing the holistic support they need to have a second chance at the life Jesus desires for them.

Taj is persevering in school (despite traveling fifteen miles each day to attend classes!), receiving proper nutrition and medical care, and experiencing God’s love through his local church. Already, the difference is clear: Taj is thriving and determined to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor.

Pictured: Taj and his mother get around by bike. Bicycle passengers riding “side-saddle” is common in South Asia!

3 Biggest Myths of Global Orphan Care

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:56:51 GMT

When was the last time you had a “paradigm shift?” Something where the very basics about a concept or situation or problem were completely turned around, hopefully closer to the truth that’s always been there.

The global orphan care community (consisting of governments, NGOs, organizations, and faith-based groups—predominantly Christian ministries) has recently experienced a paradigm shift in how to best care for orphans.

Below I want to address the three biggest commonly-held assumptions and beliefs (myths) about orphan care that helped lead to this paradigm shift.

As you read, consider if you’ve ever held to these ideas, or maybe still do right now. And then check out how Restoring Hope is addressing them on the ground in South Asia.

MYTH #1: MOST CHILDREN IN ORPHANAGES HAVE NO LIVING FAMILY

The Reality: This is sometimes referred to as the “Little Orphan Annie” perspective, and is one of the most widespread myths. The vast majority of children in any type of institutional care, often estimated to be around 80-90%, have at least one living parent or another relative who would like to care for them. Separation from families in these situations is not because of a lack of family, but because of poverty, no access to education or healthcare, or other crises.

The Restoring Hope Reality: When we examined our church-based orphan homes in 2017, indeed we found that 77% of our Restoring Hope children did have at least one living parent, and more than 90% had one living relative who could be caring for them if circumstances were improved. The process of learning how to reunify our children with their families, with social workers overseeing the process, started soon after this.

MYTH #2: ORPHANAGES ARE THE BEST OR ONLY WAY TO CARE FOR CHILDREN WHOSE PARENTS CAN’T CARE FOR THEM

The Reality: Decades of research have shown that institutional care, no matter how well-intentioned, is harmful to a child's development. Children in orphanages or other institutional settings often suffer from developmental delays, attachment disorders, and other long-term psychological and physical issues. The lack of individual attention and consistent, loving relationships in an institutional setting can have lasting negative effects. Family-based care, such as family reunification, foster care, or adoption, is the gold standard for providing a safe and nurturing environment for a child.

The Restoring Hope Reality: Even in our “family-style” church children’s homes from 2008–2019, we knew that unnecessarily separating a child or young adult from a loving parent or care-giving relative was wrong. But it took a whole movement across the globe to help us consider this paradigm shift. Now, we’re happy to say, we are part of helping other organizations and ministries on the ground in South Asia consider the best practices of orphan care, and what this care looks like in light of God’s own heart for family.

MYTH #3: IT’S BETTER FOR A CHILD TO BE IN AN ORPHANAGE THAN LIVE IN POVERTY WITH THEIR LIVING FAMILY

The Reality: This one is really tempting to believe, especially if that “orphanage” is just a small church or another residence that doesn’t feel institutional or impersonal. While poverty is a severe problem, separating a child from their family to live in an institution causes more profound and long-lasting, personal and emotional harm than the challenges of poverty. A child's deepest needs—for connection, identity, and love—are best met within a family. Addressing the root causes of poverty through community support is a more effective and humane solution.

The Restoring Hope Reality: This is where the Restoring Hope model of “family-based, church-assisted” orphan care really shines. We asked ourselves, “How can the church support the caregiving family, not just the child, in our best practices of orphan care?” Now Restoring Hope has a team of 12 social workers and 75 pastor couples working together to help 800 orphaned and vulnerable children and their biological families overcome childhood tragedy and loss for a future that is filled with possibility and hope.

IN CLOSING

We have found in our two decades of orphan care that a lot of educating that needs to be done for ourselves, our on-the-ground pastors and staff, and, yes, even our partners who want so much to help in the most effective manner possible. And we're glad to say we've come a long way, and are now training others in South Asia on best practices of caring for orphans and other vulnerable children.

If you'd like to help care for orphans in the very best ways possible, consider a special donation to Restoring Hope today. Your gift will help empower 800 such children to remain with their biological families, and break free from generational cycles of poverty.

Summer Celebrations Highlight Our Leading Model of Care

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 18:47:32 GMT

Our team in South Asia was excited to share some fun memory-making from their summer, so they sent over some photos, which you click through below. These are specifically from our tri-annual gatherings (which sort of resemble youth group events), and represent a month full of community and celebration for our Restoring Hope children and families.

Like young people everywhere, our children, youth, and students need time to just have fun and restore a sense of delight during childhood. And that’s why you’ll see them playing chess and taking a boat ride, in addition to times of teaching and worship.

Our Summer Celebrations highlight our model of care for those we serve: Biological families caring for their own orphaned or vulnerable children—supported by the local church with nutrition, discipleship, and education.

We love sharing photos from these community-building gatherings, because these events are a vital part of holistic restoration for each of our 800 children, youth, and students. We host these types of events not just in the summer, but three times each year.

The giving, prayers, and advocacy from our family of Restoring Hope partners makes these essential moments of childhood, family, and church life possible for our 800 children. If you'd like to be part of helping these gatherings happen, please consider a special gift today: www.restoringhopeasia.org/give .

No Longer Forgotten: Advika's Story

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 18:19:33 GMT

Advika’s* early life was marked by deep loss. At just three, she lost her mother to suicide—the result of domestic violence and addiction—and was soon abandoned by her father. She and her brother were taken in by their grandmother, who struggled to provide even the basics

For years, Advika’s future looked uncertain. Financial pressure nearly forced her into domestic labor, and her education came to a halt. But everything changed when her grandmother connected with a local church pastor and Restoring Hope’s social workers.

Advika was welcomed into a caring community, and given the support she needed to return to school and thrive. In time, she became one of the top students in her college, received recognition from local officials, and grew in confidence through spiritual mentoring and consistent encouragement.

Today, Advika is pursuing a career in the government banking sector, determined to help others facing the same struggles she overcame.

When Advika felt overlooked and forgotten in her young life, the generosity of Restoring Hope's partners helped open the door to a new future for her. What could have ended in tragedy became a triumph!

*Pseudonyms are used to protect the identity of people and areas Restoring Hope serves.

A Partner's Story

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 20:54:56 GMT

By Bryan & Shelley, Restoring Hope Partners

We and our two boys live in Western Washington. We grew up involved in our local churches; going on mission trips to Mexico, Honduras, and Romania; and having a heart for local and global missions. We knew Restoring Hope's Co-director, Sean, from many years ago, and after seeing some posts on social media, we started supporting Restoring Hope back in 2011, before our boys were born.

At the end of 2018, we felt called to partner more with Restoring Hope because we wanted our boys to be more involved. We had told Sean that we would support a home of boys in South Asia. In talking with Sean, it became clear to us that God had been leading us in this direction. At the beginning of 2019 our experience of supporting these children became more meaningful as we watched our boys and the boys of Restoring Hope grow up simultaneously.

Watching the boys of Restoring Hope become college students, while the youngest is still in grade school, has been a rewarding journey. As a family, we watch for updates, see pictures, and continue to pray for hope and healing for these friends on the other side of the world who have been through so much.

In partnering with Restoring Hope, we have seen first-hand the generational change and holistic restoration of orphans that is happening in South Asia. Each time we give, we know exactly what our giving is going towards, and the real-life impact it is having in the lives of once-orphaned children and their families.

Today, the traditional orphan and vulnerable children care support model of direct sponsorship has been phased out of Restoring Hope. Children who were once in children's homes are now reunited with living family members—and this model is proving much more effective! But thanks to partners like Bryan and Shelly, and so many others, Restoring Hope continues to make a difference in the lives of more than 800 children and families who have come through great hardship or tragedy and are now on the road to healing and hope.

From Tragedy to Triumph: Malisha’s Story

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 17:14:10 GMT

Malisha’s* story is a common one in rural South Asia.

Her parents were married at a young age, and were expected to have children as soon as possible. After Malisha was born, her family was doing okay for a while—but then tragedy struck. Her father died of a heart attack when Malisha was only three years old.

Malisha’s mother did her best to make it work, but life as a solo parent and only breadwinner in rural South Asia (or anywhere) is overwhelming. A situation that may have been disastrous for Malisha and her family became a story of God’s provision and love.

Because one of our Restoring Hope village pastors stepped in. Through the support of the local church, Malisha was reunified with her grandmother who was able to become her caregiver. And Malisha is now attending the very best college preparatory school in her area.

Without the help of Restoring Hope, Malisha’s education would have been minimal, and her future would have been in jeopardy. Very likely she would have relied on day-to-day subsistence work, or she would have married too young, hoping for the best.

Malisha, now 15, was baptized in Jesus Christ during the pandemic, and hopes to be a police officer in the future.

There are hundreds of children and youth like Malisha that are overcoming tragedy, learning about God’s love, and looking at a bright future because of Restoring Hope’s help of orphaned and vulnerable children through local village churches in South Asia. This happens because of the support and prayers of Restoring Hope's partners.

We, and Malisha, are so grateful!

*Pseudonyms are used to protect the identities of people and areas Restoring Hope serves.

Reflecting on Nine Years with Restoring Hope

Tue, 30 May 2023 17:25:41 GMT

By Mary, Restoring Hope Partner

Exactly nine years ago, I met some of the Restoring Hope children for the first time.

I had the pure joy of serving onsite in South Asia with Restoring Hope, and all these years later, I can still see the smile of these children and remember the sounds of their laughter so clearly.

My team helped facilitate several summer camps for Restoring Hope children over the course of a month. These summer camps (now called Summer Celebrations) were much-anticipated for all the children—often what they looked forward to all year long.

From the youngest child to the oldest adult, camp was enjoyed to the fullest and filled with purpose.

The theme for our camps that year was The Kingdom of God, and our games, development activities, and devotionals were centered around Matthew 19:14, which says, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these."

It is still so sweet to reflect on my time nine years later, and in doing so, to share part of the journal I wrote during that trip:

We are finishing up our fifth camp for Restoring Hope . . . What a blast it has been. I feel like I have gained so many little brothers and sisters! You can see hope so clearly in all of their eyes. The stories of what each of these children have walked through are heavy, but you’d never know they were once orphaned by meeting them. Their hearts are so pure, and their joy runs deep. Restoring Hope truly is changing the trajectory of their lives.

I saw firsthand that what these kids experience through Restoring Hope is nothing short of transformational. I knew I wanted to be part of this vision however I could.

Before I got home to the States, I asked how to stay connected, and be part of the Restoring Hope team.

Throughout the past nine years, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute blogs, social media content, join the development team, help college mission teams prepare for Restoring Hope trips of their own, and lend a hand in coordinating fundraising campaigns.

Being part of the Restoring Hope tribe really is a treasure to me.

Building and expanding an organization led by the local village church, aiming to bring hope and discipleship across Asia, is no small task.

The simultaneous seasons of planning, fundraising and expansion are fast-paced and full. Seeing only a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes myself, I am overwhelmingly thankful for the directors and staff who have formed the strong foundation of what Restoring Hope is today.

We’re expectant to see where He continues to lead us, and how He continues to bring new opportunities to restore hope for vulnerable children in Asia.

Mary is a guest blogger sharing her experiences with supporters to commemorate fifteen years of Restoring Hope. We thank her for the commitments she’s made over the past nine years, and the many ways she continues to invest long-term in the futures of these children!

Now an Engineer: Mahini’s Story

Thu, 04 May 2023 17:50:52 GMT

Mahini’s* father passed away when she was very young. In South Asian rural villages, this type of tragedy is nearly impossible to overcome. But a local Restoring Hope pastor stepped in to offer help. And as Mahini grew up learning about God’s love and attending a school she'd otherwise not have access to, she embraced the message of servant leadership that all Restoring Hope children are taught.

Now 24 years old, Mahini is at the cusp of her career as she applies to work for a local private company as a software engineer! Below she shares her progress and future dreams in her own words:

"I finished my fourth year project and my final year. I got good marks in my electrical engineer subjects. Now I am waiting for my bachelor graduation degree certificate. And after that, I will join a local private company. I want to share my thoughts and my projects with all of the poor, neglected, and orphaned children (through computer language skills and communicating through software engineering)."

Mahini is one of our very first college graduates, and today she serves as one of two Restoring Hope Alumni Coordinators who are helping keep all those who finish college in community for years to come.

Starting with 80 children in 8 church-based residential homes, we are now serving more than 800 children and families in our network of care. We anticipate hundreds more graduates, baptized in Jesus and ready to serve their communities as doctors, lawyers, school teachers, pastors, and city leaders. It wouldn't be possible without people like you who pray and give generously to make Restoring Hope's work possible.

*Pseudonyms are used to protect the identities of people and areas Restoring Hope serves.

The Roles of Family Members

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 18:02:24 GMT

At Restoring Hope, we're championing a new model of care for orphaned children called family-based care. What this means is that in the event of a child losing one or both parents, we help make it possible for that child to remain with their living biological family members. That might be a grandparent, aunt or uncle, or older sibling.

Extended family is already such an integrated and natural presence in village South Asia, and extended family members play an important part in a child understanding the dynamics of community.

Our goal is to support these children through the local village church. Holistic care looks like pouring love onto the child and their primary caregiver (within their biological family). This ensures the child's needs are met no matter how difficult the family tragedy they experienced is.

Investigating the life surrounding a child is needed in order to prioritize family. In the absence of a biological parent, living with a grandmother, aunt, or other extended family member is usually the first choice for a child. This preserves a family.

And we aim for these children to rise out of poverty, being the first in their families to graduate college and have reliable incomes. And we encourage children to invite their whole family to attend church with them, which creates potential for the entire family to be rich spiritually, not just economically.

Long-term we envision the children becoming future leaders who serve their communities—through their families first. And we are so glad to regularly hear reports of children who want to make a good living in order give back to their family and community in some way.

“I want to take care of my grandpa."

“I want to make sure my grandma is taken care of.”

“I want to help give back to my aunt."

The role of family is so important to orphan care, and to Restoring Hope’s mission of holistic renewal of orphaned and vulnerable children in South Asia—and their families!

How We Get Reports from South Asia

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:07:07 GMT

Have you ever wondered how we keep up with the 800+ children and families in our network of care?

Because of our family-based model of care, the children of Restoring Hope live with biological family caregivers rather than in children's homes. This requires a lot more work to gather information and reports on their statuses.

Our support teams are made up of local village pastors, indigenous social workers, and on-the-ground administrative staff. They have set up ways to stay in contact with each child regardless of geographic location—even the older children and graduates.

Pastor home visits are part of the reporting process. Six case workers are also dedicated to home visits, with an additional four trained social workers who report three times annually on higher-risk children. Hours on buses, trains, and auto-rickshaws are required to travel to rural villages in an overall region the size of Colorado! Amidst home visits, these teams also check in with families by phone, as well as in-person at our Summer Celebrations, Christmas Celebrations, and other similar gatherings.

With this team of support staying connected to the children and families in our care, we get to pass along to you how the children are doing, as well as their hopes and dreams for the future!

Here’s one update from Rowann*:

Rowann* is now 24 years old, and has been reintegrated into his biological family, living with his mother. His father passed when he was young due to medical complications, and he was raised in a local village church for almost a decade. Now, through his studies to become a nurse, he is gaining education and practicum experience in a government hospital in pediatrics and maternal mother care. Part of his work is to help prevent early complications to unborn children. A highlight for Rowann recently was a medical camp, which he talks about in his last report:

"I am very happy about attending this medical camp program. I treated what they wanted to needed patients, and we are giving some medicine to them. This year I am studying my final year of nursing (as a junior), and we are celebrated in a farewell party for the final year students. My college teachers and my fellow juniors are cheering me on in my upcoming final year examinations."

Rowann has many plans that include taking his studies further. Because of Restoring Hope's support, his dreams are realistic. He is very dedicated to seeing them through and giving back to his community in some way after he establishes a regular salary.

This is not uncommon. Many of the children tell our staff in their updates that they are “wanting to get a good job to support their family.” How amazing to see these restored children bring hope not only for themselves, but to the whole family, inspiring other Restoring Hope children along the way as well! This shows once again that once a child receives the holistic support they need to thrive, transformation can take place.

*Pseudonyms are used to protect the identities of people and areas Restoring Hope serves.

Christmas Celebrations

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 18:26:46 GMT

Early on Restoring Hope's ministry in South Asai—when we had around 100 little kids, ages five to twelve years old, we reached out to our partners to ask if they could help fund projects like painting our church buildings, or providing school uniforms and Christmas gifts for the children.

This began a tradition of giving new clothes to the children of Restoring Hope at Christmastime. New shirts, pants, or dresses for young orphaned and vulnerable children is so important to foster a sense of dignity and personal worth.

Back then we had dreams of sending these children to college one day. Fast forward twelve years, and now all the children are living and thriving with biological family caregivers, and half of them are on the brink of that very dream—attending college and likely becoming the last person in their family to ever experience poverty.

Today, one of the most significant times of year for the children and families of Restoring Hope is during Christmas when their local churches gather to celebrate together.

In order to rotate hosting venues, a few churches come together as a "cluster" to hold our Christmas Celebrations. This also fosters relationships, as children and families reunite with friends from other churches they don't see day-today. They get to eat great food, sing and dance, pray, and experience what it means to celebrates this important holiday. And it draws new participants into the local congregations!

Every year when the holiday season is upon us, the 800+ children and families in Restoring Hope's network of care look forward to these Christmas Celebration gatherings—just as much, or even more than, we do here in the West. Attendees hear about the angels and shepherds, Mary’s faithful response, the birth of the Savior, and peace on Earth.

Thank you for helping make these gatherings possible through your prayers and financial support. You are helping make it possible for hundreds of orphaned and vulnerable children, their extended families, and local village members to hear the message of Christmas.

Fruit in Its Season: On the Ground in South Asia

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 19:07:25 GMT

By Sean, Co-Director of Restoring Hope

My wife and I lived in South Asia working with orphan care starting in 2011. We thought it was a one- or two-year commitment, but then we fell in love with these orphaned and vulnerable kids whom we were indirectly serving through local leaders and staff.

For the next five years, working closely with locals to provide the best orphan care possible for the many orphaned and vulnerable children in our geographical area, we established the operational side of this indigenously-led ministry.

Since then we have made annual or twice-annual trips to visit, train, encourage, instruct, inspire and receive mutual edification as the children have become students, and are now well on their way to becoming adults. So when these visits stopped for three years due to the pandemic and other reasons, we knew the next time we returned would feel like a momentous occasion.

And we were right.

I just returned from two weeks on the ground, and what a joy to be with children and families that seem to be thriving.

Spending time with 200 of our college students—who were eight to ten years old when we first arrived eleven years ago—was a fulfilling time of seeing fruit in its season. The adult caregivers, the staff dedication, and the family care that is now in place has put these “formerly” orphaned and vulnerable children on a path to the holistic restoration we have dreamed of. Physically, emotionally, socially, educationally, and spiritually.

While there, Restoring Hope conducted our first-ever College Student Weekend Conference, where most of our 250 “former” orphaned children-now-college students attended while on the brink of their future.

This event was nothing short of the most gratifying time of this fourteen-year undertaking. It induced plenty of reflecting on the past eleven years, and all that is to come for these students and the kids following in their footsteps in years to come (450 more children and students are currently coming up through Restoring Hope’s ranks).

For example, Sujuna* was eight years old when we first met her in 2011. One of her parents had tragically died, and the local pastor wanted to support her family in raising her.

Restoring Hope’s commitment not just to food support, not just to educational support, but also to family support and spiritual guidance has produced someone in Sujuna who stood out at this weekend conference for her ability to think and speak, and for a future that is shining brilliantly as she pursues her undergraduate college degree.

Without Restoring Hope’s commitment to her family, Sujuna would perhaps have made it through her sophomore year of high school, and then not had the financial ability or family support to advance more. She will be the first college graduate in her family.

We took lots of photos and video from the College Student Weekend Conference, and created this 50-second montage for you. Watch here:

We are forever grateful for the partners that have helped us each step of the way to arrive to this point of seeing this very special fruit in its season. Thank you!

*Pseudonyms are used to protect the identities of people and areas Restoring Hope serves.

Our First Alumni Gatherings!

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 20:30:26 GMT

In May 2022, our first-ever Restoring Hope alumni gatherings took place in two parts of South Asia!

For many of our graduates, the word "alumni" itself was new. The children we serve are usually the very first to attend higher education, let alone graduate!

Today, more than 88 of our students are college graduates. Believing many more will join this alumni group in the years go come, we had to consider:

How will they stay connected?
How will they find a faith community for their journey?
What will they do and become now that they are graduated?

These are the questions that fueled the development of our new Restoring Hope Alumni Program.

At the first alumni gatherings, graduates came together to celebrate birthdays and attend workshops on responsibility to family, career guidance, and online safety.

Ratna,* our new Alumni Coordinator in one region, has been part of Restoring Hope since he was a child. During the event, he shared his testimony and story of successfully graduating college.

The second alumni gathering, in a different region, extended two days! Reporting back on the event, the team said:

“They conducted similar sessions in career guidance, and they discussed responsibilities after graduation. And they love to celebrate their birthdays together also!"

Today Restoring Hope has more than 300 students currently enrolled in college. We expect that number to double in the next couple years as many of the children that began with their education assistance ten years ago are now getting older.

Designated funding from one generous donor is making it possible for us to host more alumni gatherings and programs, provide transportation as needed for both alumni and staff, and help us to set good standards for what our college graduates can expect from continuing to be a part of the Restoring Hope family. We are grateful to God for the opportunity to expand our care and support to our children and their families, even into adulthood!

*Pseudonyms are used to protect the identity of people and areas Restoring Hope serves.

Drawing Families into the Local Church Through Summer Celebrations

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 20:42:13 GMT

Our vision at Restoring Hope is: Holistic restoration of South Asia’s orphaned and vulnerable children for lives of dignity, purpose and transformation of their communities.

Holistic restoration includes the physical, social, educational, as well as spiritual healing, growth, and development of children who have faced tragedy in their young lives. Our aim is that all of 700+ children, youth, and college students in Restoring Hope would be physically healthy, socially belonging, college or vocationally educated, and discipled in Jesus.

And the key distinction in our model of care is the assistance of the local church in helping biological family members raise their orphaned or vulnerable children. This element of the local church continues to be fostered and intentionally built since the children were reunified with their biological families in 2020. Drawing the families together into the local church is a priority for Restoring Hope pastors and staff as we care for and oversee these children and families.

Our Summer Celebrations are specifically held to build and strengthen the relationship between our children's caregiving families and our Restoring Hope pastors, social workers, and staff. It is not uncommon for almost all of our children and families to attend their Restoring Hope local church for these multi-day gatherings. Through games, crafts, song and dance performances, short Biblical messages, fields trip to local outdoor experiences, sleepovers, and lots of colorful décor and delicious food, the sense of community grew and relationships were strengthened.

Harsha* is one of our college students. When he lost his father at an early age, his future was dim, but his local Restoring Hope church gave him a second chance. When we asked Harsha about his memories of these gatherings, he said:

“My mother and I attended the regional meeting. My mother liked that group regional meeting as all the Restoring Hope children parents shared their experience of the [pandemic]. Regional meetings are very important to me when all the Restoring Hope children and parents are involved in the meetings, and we are learning care and protection of the children. The staff gives good guidance to the parents; these meetings are very helpful to all the Restoring Hope children."

If they didn’t have it before, Harsha and his mother, after attending our Summer Celebration, now have a sense of belonging and connection with their local church community and pastor’s family. Our Summer Celebrations are just one part of our ongoing effort to care for the holistic needs of orphans and vulnerable children through their own biological families and the assistance and shepherding of the local church. And this vision is happening—one family at a time, one local church and pastor at a time, and one Summer Celebration at a time.

*Pseudonyms are used to protect the identity of people and areas Restoring Hope serves.

From Loss to Leadership: Thampan’s Story

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 21:01:37 GMT

Thampan’s* parents were field laborers. When his father took his own life, it left the family in a hard position to make ends meet. His mother left him to be raised by his grandmother, and then she remarried another man. (Bringing child into a new marriage is often stigmatized in South Asia.)

Though Thampan’s childhood loss was tragic, he's become a delightful individual. He enjoys playing cricket, a traditional sport in South Asia, as well as another contact team sport called kabaddi.

Today Thampan is part of Restoring Hope which has enabled him to learn his way out of poverty. Thampan now studies in junior college and is becoming a leader. He recently helped welcome the incoming freshmen as a leader for the orientation team, which included helping manage the celebrations, food, and student greetings.

He's also experienced the love of Jesus. His favorite Bible story is David and Goliath, and he prays to God for his education and to gain wisdom. When asked what his relationship with God has been like during his college years, and how he has seen God at work, Thampan said:

“I praise the Lord God for providing so many things to give me a good college experience. I am very thankful for the Restoring Hope supporters to help me fulfill my dreams. Thank you.”

Restoring Hope's team in South Asia also reported:

“Thampan wants to become a pastor to serve society and the poor children in the surrounding villages."

In Thampan's own word:

“I enjoy science labs, chemistry and physics, but I want to become a pastor. I want to be settled in the society and stand up for poor people through the help of Restoring Hope."

*Pseudonyms are used to protect the identity of people and areas Restoring Hope serves.

First to Attend College: Khajal's Story

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 20:58:13 GMT

Khajal* loves reading books, but she came from a family of field laborers—and none of them had ever attended school past the fifth grade.

After her father’s sudden death due to liver failure, her mother now had to shoulder providing for and protecting the family. She experienced difficulty caring for her while working in the fields. And this was compounded by ongoing issues with extended family.

Because of these things, Khajal's education was disrupted many times.

When Khajal’s mother attended a church service in her village, she approached the pastor afterwards about her difficult situation. This led to the opportunity to receive help from Restoring Hope.

Today, Khajal is completing her studies at an English-intermediate school. She enjoys science labs, dancing at the orientation for new students, and helping welcome new students. Khajal says she “wants to make her parents proud."

She is in fellowship with other believers in her school and they gather to pray to God regularly. She praises the Lord and shares:

“I have many believing friends who also meditate on the Word of God. I am very thankful to Restoring Hope for bringing me up and helping me to have a good life.”

Her ambition is to complete college and become a teacher—which would be a huge breakthrough for her family and societal norms in her area. The desire to give back to their community is not uncommon for graduates of Restoring Hope, and we thank God for our family of partners who make this kind of transformation possible in children like Khajal!

*Psuedonyms are used to protect the identity of people and areas Restoring Hope serves.

Saramma's Story of Gratitude

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 21:06:15 GMT

When Saramma's* and her brother's father suddenly died from a heart attack, the family was left in crisis. Both her parents had been laborers who worked in the fields, which meant the responsibility to look after her younger sibling fell on Saramma. Caring for the family strained her from attending school.

Saramma’s mother reached out to Restoring Hope through a village pastor she knew, and she asked for assistance to enroll Saramma in a good English-level college. Though it was a school farther from their village, it would be a better education and opportunity—something no longer attainable for the now-fatherless family.

The support of the Restoring Hope teams' swift action would provide more opportunities for Saramma, and her whole family. She is now learning her way out of poverty, and studying in junior college (the equivalent of studying towards an associate’s-level degree). She reports:

“My teacher speaks very fast, but this is a new school, and I’m sure I will pick up my new subjects quickly.”

Saramma's favorite food is biriyani rice with chicken curry. She enjoys playing carom board, a popular game in South Asia, and she enjoys skipping. She wants to become a teacher for poor children in surrounding villages. In her own words:

“I want to become a government teacher and help my pastor and his wife. I hope to serve my village poor people, help our Restoring Hope summer camp and help my family. Everyday I praise the Lord. God helps me a lot; He provided everything in my life. I thank God for providing Restoring Hope and I thank you all for giving me all of these things.”

Saramma is just one of more than 700 orphaned and vulnerable children being served through Restoring Hope. We are grateful for each and every person who has invested financially and has prayed for us—you are one of the main reasons children like her are able to be helped.

*Pseudonyms are used to protect the identity of people and areas Restoring Hope serves.