Growing Godly Leaders

A few years ago, as her classmates and brothers and sisters were getting ready to go back to school, 12-year-old Heidy knew she wouldn’t be. She had completed elementary school, and now her family needed her to stay at home. The family’s financial situation had taken a turn for the worse. Of the six siblings, she was the oldest girl. Her older brother was close to graduating, and his education took priority. She could help with the family income and help with the younger ones. For the family, it was the painful decision that made the most sense. For Heidy,…

She was abandoned in the care of her neighbour who looked after the child for ten months. He was born of sexual abuse and the mother wanted nothing to do with him. They were left to fend for themselves while the mother abused alcohol. She was found in a garbage dump, her placenta still attached and covered in ants. These are some of the realities for children who find their way to the Vida Children’s Home in Guatemala. These are some of the children who need so desperately to know that God sees them and God loves them. That last little girl…

Gladis lives in a home where love is never lacking, but resources are. Her father doesn’t have stable work, and there are times when there isn’t enough food for the family. When having three meals a day is a luxury they can’t afford. At Vida Schools, each child receives a nutritious meal before beginning their classes. Because full tummies learn better and often there’s simply not enough food at home. The school meal is one of the moments Gladis looks forward to most every day. Her face lights up with a smile when she receives her plate and she gives silent thanks…