No one would have presumed that early 2020 would be greeted by a worldwide pandemic. In addition, no one would have presumed that schools and businesses would have to close, there would be stay-at-home orders, and health care workers would be our only defense. For most of us, home can be a comforting place, with food, water, electricity, etc. However, there are those in developing countries who are not as fortunate.
UPDATE AS OF JULY 1: The girls from Christine’s House are still with their families. The staff has been taking trips to their houses to bring food, encouragement, and prayer during this time. We are praying that God would allow them to return to the house soon!
Christine’s House Temporary Relocation
Our partner in Uganda, Christine’s House, has unfortunately experienced many negative effects from COVID-19. As of April 16, Uganda had 55 confirmed cases of COVID-19. In the same response as America, Uganda closed schools, business, non-essential transportation, church meetings, and numerous other activities. Shortly after the safe house took in a new group of girls who have been trafficked or sexually exploited, the staff at Christine’s House had to relocate all girls back to their homes with their family or guardian after consultation from the district authorities. Tears were rolling down the girls’ faces as some wondered why the government would not allow them to stay. The staff is working to establish counseling and support for the girls from afar. Currently, there are only four pregnant young girls who are still staying at Christine’s House.
The COVID-19 pandemic is complicated, and we must trust that God has a plan through all of this. The staff of Christine’s House told the girls to leave most of their possessions and only take essential items back with them to their former homes; this relieved the girls to know they will return to Christine’s House after this brief period of quarantine. We are praying that they will continue to push forward with that hope and can return to the safe home soon.
How You Can Help | Become a 4/24 Ally
In 2020, Freedom 4/24 is seeking to provide the funds that would allow the house to continue its work of restoration and healing by providing the financials for housing, medical care, counseling, pre/postnatal care, pediatric care for the babies born throughout the program, home visits, and education. We desire to cover all financial burdens, so the staff can focus on the victims.
From 2014 to 2019, 56 babies were born at Christine’s House and approximately 117 girls graduated from the Christine’s House program and 90 have graduated from vocational school.
4/24 Allies are compelled by the stories of victims and survivors and empower Freedom 4/24 and our partners to bring freedom and justice through meeting tangible needs and providing liberation both physically and spiritually for individuals in bondage. For just $24 a month or more, you can bring freedom all year long.