Malawi: Report #3
Today the team traveled to the Dowa District to see Hope House, and orphan
feeding center. Jim and Janelle Hamilton, a retired couple, began this work
after many mission trips to Malawi in the early 2000s. There are many orphans
in Malawi homeless; orphaned as their
parents died of AIDS. It is estimated that 5 out of 8 orphans in Malawi are
HIV+. The Hamiltons began the work on a shoestring budget to feed just 20 or
so. Now they feed about 350 in three separate centers. They grow their own
vegetables, raise chickens and rabbits, and receive an enriched meal from Feed
the Children. They teach the orphans to sew as a source of future livelihood.
They help them with their education. We were able to visit the third Hope House,
where Constance was able to visit with an orphan she sponsors. God has blessed
this work over the years, and they continue to expand their reach. They will be
expanding to help widows, many of whom are old and destitute.
After the children got out of school, we were able to join them for a time of
singing songs and choruses, dancing with the orphans as they sang, accompanied
by a drum. The team was able to take part briefly in helping to serve the
feeding of the orphans before we had to leave. It was a wonderful time for the
team to see a simple work begun in faith which God has blessed so. Tomorrow,
back to Kamoyo.
Matters for prayer: Please continue to pray for prepared hearts as we work
here. Please pray for the team in their preparations and work. Pray for
continued good health. Pray for me as I lead, for sensitivity to God’s
direction and for wisdom.
Ray Smith
Malawi Team
