His Voice Global January Newsletter
Happy New Year!
In 2023, we saw God move in unprecedented ways through our work in East Africa. As we reflect on the past year and prepare for the new, it is incredibly gratifying to let you know that we directly impacted 7,561 people through all four of our programs combined, which does not include "the ripple effect" from these directly documented people. Part of this impact was the joy of seeing 152 new believers come to faith in Jesus! All of this could not have happened had it not been for your prayers, encouragement, and financial support. During the last quarter of the year, we were able to exceed our goal of raising $650,000, which allowed us to meet our ministry budget and prepare for the growth we expect in 2024. Watch this video to hear Co-Founder and CEO Dr. Vernon Burger II expand on the impact we are experiencing among the vulnerable we serve.
A Story of Renewal
Immaculate came into our Shine care in 2022 when she was 10 years old. Born without the use of her legs or the ability to speak correctly, Immaculate lives with her aunt and her mother, Stella, who is also physically impaired leaving her unable to properly support herself and Immaculate. Shine provides encouraging support from our staff, monthly food staples, a water filter with a monthly check, and a small medical stipend for Immaculate.
During a routine check-in on the family and assessment for a wheelchair, our physiotherapist, Ben, was hopeful that Immaculate was still young enough that with therapy, she might gain some use of her legs and the ability to sit up on her own. Through continued visits with Ben and work on her muscle flexibility and strength, Immaculate began to show subtle improvement in sitting posture! With the help of Stella and others in the community, she’s been able to continue working to strengthen her body.
In November Immaculate received custom fit leg braces. When Ben helped her stand for the first time, her smile lit up the already sunny sky! She was able to sit on her own in a corner without slumping over. So much hope and rejoicing surrounded everyone who was there to see her stand. Even though she cannot move her legs on her own, Ben “walked” her through the parallel bars. She smiled and laughed the whole way.
The hope is, that overtime, Immaculate will be able to stand and move around her home on her own. Being able to move about her home on her own would be freeing for Immaculate and her mother. The wheelchair will allow her to travel longer distances and possibly start school.
Please pray for Immaculate and her mother, Stella. Pray for Immaculate’s therapy to continue to progress well.
Thrive Student Sponsorship
HVG has launched our very first sponsorship program for our Thrive students! We currently have 26 students in the program with another 18 waiting to join! With your help, we hope to ensure each student's success, and are asking for people to commit to donate $50 a month. It takes a village and we hope to surround each student with the help they need to succeed and finish their training or university degree. Read more HERE about how to support a Thrive student to become one of their “Tribe of Ten!”
Thank you for your support of His Voice Global! It is a joy to serve those God has given to us with you!