SIDE BY SIDE
Gratitude and Trust – A story from Kids Alive in the Dominican Republic Vic and Leslie Trautwein
God’s Care
A Season of Waiting
One of our social workers received this message on her phone from the mother of one of her students, along with this photo:
Life in Dominican Republic is now, in many ways, quite different than we’re used to. Our borders have been closed for over three months, and closures will likely extend into the summer. The month of June saw the closing of most nonessential businesses, and a nationwide curfew from 8 p.m. until 5 a.m. All these new realities have changed how we operate our ministry, and we are learning to wait patiently on the Lord and His timing. Our three residential campuses are in summer programs but remain under strict protocols with limited and controlled entries and exits. The children and youth continue to learn about and appreciate God’s provision and protection. Our seven schools are now on summer break. Over the last few months, our team has provided regular meals for over 1,200 families along with academic and spiritual enrichment materials for students and parents, most of whom have lost their meager incomes during the pandemic.
Blessings! I hope in the Lord that this finds you all well in your house. I always trust in God. This was my last egg for these days. The first message was followed a few minutes later by another message and photo.
Your Gifts, God’s Provision Last November, College Church selected three projects to support as part of the Thanksgiving Eve Offering. One of the three projects was submitted by the Trautweins. Your gifts supported new dental care to impoverished, atrisk kids, encouraging overall health and confidence. Doing so increases retention, allowing Kids Alive to have a greater impact in the lives of students and families. Because of your support, we now have newly acquired dental equipment that will allow us to more easily accommodate visiting dentists. We have already set aside space in our building to use as a dental exam room, and we have identified two local dentists who are willing to help treat our students. Our hope is to hire a dental hygienist and to offer routine dental exams and dental care to all students once our campus has re-opened.
One more time, God has shown me that he takes care of us and His timing is perfect. One of the great blessings of this great (Kids Alive) team and family is that each day you run the extra miles to save lives. We are extremely grateful for the ministry of Kids Alive. May God multiply abundantly His blessings over you and your health always.
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We also recently added a full-time counselor to our staff, and this will help us better address the needs of children who have witnessed or experienced traumatic events, especially in light of the current uncertainty. His Steadfast Love Through these uncertain times, God’s promises are certain, and his steadfast love never ceases. It brings us great joy to see the fruit of your generous gifts, and even more joy that we can share these victories with you.
