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By Bethany Hammond, HOPE International staff member

“Something you want. Something you need. Something to wear. Something to read.” 

It’s begun—the endless chorus of “Mom, can you put this on my Christmas list? And here I am, caught between two worlds. 

In one world, I want my kids to experience the wonder of Christmas: the miracle of Christ’s birth, the glow of lights, the smell of cookies baking, and the magic of traditions that make the season sparkle. 

But in the other world, I feel the weight of frustration. Every message aimed at my kids (and let’s be honest, at me too) insists: “You need more. You deserve more. You’re entitled to more.”

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Children are among the most vulnerable members of any society—but in communities where poverty is present, the stakes are higher. Children are two times more likely than adults to live in extreme poverty. And when kids lack basic needs like food and shelter, it hurts their chances to stay healthy, learn at school, and someday live the lives they dream of (UNICEF). As of 2024, 412 million children are living on less than $3 per day (World Bank).

Yet we know that God cares deeply about kids. The question is, how do we protect them from the impacts of poverty and equip them with what they need to lead healthy, flourishing lives? 

At HOPE International, we believe one of the best ways to care for children living in poverty is to empower their parents. Here’s why investing in mothers and fathers unlocks transformation for their children and future generations.  Continue Reading…

By Alisa Hoober, HOPE Board Member

Earlier this year, I had the incredible opportunity to visit HOPE International’s work in Zambia.

I’ve traveled and seen poverty before, but being with my children changed how I related to those I met. It was a blessing to visit with our whole family, especially with my three young daughters.

At home, we pray for HOPE and support their work—but showing our children HOPE in action was something I won’t forget. Continue Reading…

At 13, Eric Jeche values going to school with other students in his neighborhood in Zimbabwe. Unlike many of his peers, Eric pays for his own education 

Eric has lived with his grandmother since he lost his parents at a young age. But it’s not easy for his grandmother to pay for his school fees on top of their food, clothing, and other daily expenses, so Eric understands the value of money and work.

Before joining a savings group, he took whatever odd jobs he could find around his neighborhood. 

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Elizabeth Mutosa says that her neighborhood, Section 10, in Roan, Zambia, has gained a reputation for being a challenging place to live. “Section 10 has been characterized by … activities, like drinking beer, early marriages for young girls, and other activities that rob the peace of every child,” she shares. “There are vulnerable people that need to be helped.”

Despite these challenges, the sound of children singing praises to God can be heard filling the neighborhood. These children attend Elizabeth’s preschool, which she established in her own home.

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“Blessed are those whose strength is in you.” Psalm 84:5a

This Mother’s Day, join us in honoring them by reading how three tenacious mothers, rooted in God’s strength, are overcoming obstacles to invest in bold dreams. Continue Reading…