Rehema Ministries/dba In Step Foundation, Kenya

Arrived June 2008, Abednego, abandoned at birth, was premature weighing less then 2 pounds. He was born March 16, 2008, but didn’t leave the hospital until June 9, weighing only 3 pounds. With the help of nutritious baby formula and later Plumpy Nut Paste, he is now thriving! He is truly a miracle, surviving without an incubator or anyone (human) to take care of him. He has a strong name because he has survived against all odds. Abednego and Joshua were born eleven days apart and both abandoned, two tiny little boys who have found a home (they looked like twins, Abednego was the one with the big eyes).

Arrived May 2009, Benson came to our home at 3 months old suffering from extreme dehydration and malnutrition. Several weeks earlier his mother, who was very ill, had requested that he and his sister, Melisa, be placed with us. Upon hearing this, a neighbor who had been using Benson as a tool for begging on the streets, ran off with baby Benson and hid him. When it became apparent to her that she couldn’t afford to care for him and his condition was worsening day by day, the neighbor took him to the hospital seeking help. The Children’s Office was notified and Benson was taken from the neighbor and placed with us.

Arrived September 2006, Brian came to us when he was 6 years old, along with his three siblings. His mother died of AIDS in 2004.  Because his father was unable to care for them, they were forced to beg for food from neighbors. In mid 2008, their father also passed away, leaving them orphaned. Brian was very unhealthy when he arrived at our home due to malnutrition and HIV. He is now on regular treatment and receives a healthy diet, so is a fairly healthy and active boy. He is in school and especially enjoys playing soccer.

Arrived May 2010, Darin was approximately 11 months old at the time. He was abandoned in the forest and found by a lady who took him to the police station, then he was placed here with us. He seems to be a normal but sad little boy who loves to be held and snuggled.