New Rescue: A vulnerable orphan now has a family
In the bustling city of Nakuru, three-year-old Rosie found herself alone on the unforgiving streets after being orphaned. A compassionate police officer noticed her vulnerability and ensured her safety at the local police station. Despite exhaustive efforts to trace her family, none were found, leading authorities to place her in an orphanage. The caretakers provided Rosie with not only shelter and sustenance but also protection from the potential dangers of exploitation that lurked in the city.
As the years passed, Rosie remained in the orphanage, watching as other children left for foster families or reunification with relatives. Now eight years old, her inquiries about her parents became more frequent. Rosie’s chances of finding a foster family diminished with age, and sadness lingered in her heart.
*This picture was taken before she was rescued. Funding and resources were limited at the orphanage, making it difficult to purchase new uniforms and other needs for the children.
In early September of this year, a glimmer of hope appeared in the form of Joyce, the country director of our program in Kenya. Joyce visited Rosie’s orphanage and was immediately drawn to the bright-eyed girl who had endured so much at such a young age. Recognizing the depth of Rosie’s longing for a family, Joyce discussed her situation with her own family. Driven by compassion and a desire to make a difference, Joyce and her family decided to embark on the journey to foster Rosie.
*The day Joyce, her husband Ben, and their biological children Caleb and Karolyn welcomed Rosie into their family.
Two months later on November 2, 2023, Rosie stepped into the warm embrace of Joyce's family, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life. Their home became Rosie’s haven, filled with love, understanding, and the promise of a brighter future. Rosie’s persistent question about her parents was met with honesty and reassurance, as Joyce and her family became the supportive foundation Rosie needed. The once-sad eight-year-old transformed into a blossoming child, discovering the joy of belonging to a family that chose her.
Rosie’s story, once marked by hardship and uncertainty, has now unfolded as a testament to the transformative power of love and the unwavering commitment of those who choose to make a difference in a child's life.
A note from our founder, Caitlin:
I am thrilled to share that we had the privilege of helping with the rescue of a beautiful, eight-year-old girl named Rosie (name changed for her privacy) on November 2, just over a month ago. It was such a joy to meet Rosie not long after her rescue while we were visiting Kenya. She is such a sweet little girl and immediately grabbed my hand and would not let go until we were finished with our fun boat ride.
I hope her story and these pictures serve as a reminder that Rosie is not just a number or a statistic, she is a precious life, created by God for a purpose. Rosie is evidence that every donation you give to Just1 is impacting real lives. I pray you are encouraged by knowing the impact you continue to make as you partner with us in our mission to bring rescue and restoration to vulnerable and exploited children.
I hope Rosie's story will inspire you to partner with us by making a year-end donation. Your donation will help us prepare to meet to growing needs of our program in Kenya in 2024. As you consider making a year-end donation, here are some tangible ways your gift will make an impact:
$50 pays for one month of college tuition for one young woman
$100 provides dental care for four girls
$250 covers one month of housing for six girls
$500 pays for one semester of private school tuition for four girls
$4000 covers one month of all needs of every girl in our care