Helping Restore Families

Teresa was abused and abandoned by her husband, forcing her to leave her children and go search for work in Nairobi. Teresa told our team, “I left my children with their paternal grandmother and learned they were mistreated and were forced to fend for themselves until a village elder rescued them.

Joseph, Peter, and Esther came into our full-time care in June 2018 after being physically abused by their grandmother. We spent months repairing the hearts of Joseph and his younger siblings. They were placed into one of our Zoe homes and adjusted wonderfully. While in our alternative family care, all three siblings were placed back in school, given medical care, and provided counseling. 

As our orphan care strategy began shifting in 2022, we were made aware that Teresa was back in Kitale longing to see her children. Our social workers were able to track down Teresa and give an update on her children. After several meetings with her, we knew she was ready to see them. For the first time in years, Joseph, Peter, and Esther received a hug from their biological mother. It was the first step in restoring a broken relationship.

No one wanted this relationship restored more than Joseph, Peter, and Esther. 

It was clear that Teresa loved her children. It was clear she wanted a relationship with them, but we knew she wasn’t in a place to financially to care for them. ‍

At Zoe, we believe money should never be the factor holding a mom from her children. 

Because of your help, we were able to empower Teresa through job creation earlier this year. Joseph, Peter, and Esther were placed back home with their mom in August 2023. ‍

We celebrate over another family restored. 

“Empowering this family spiritually has enabled them to trust in the Lord.” - Maurine, Zoe Social Worker

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