September 2026
“Lord, when did we see you in prison, and come to You?’ The King will answer . . . ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine . . . you did it to Me.” Matt. 25:37-40
The Lord has allowed Hands of Hope to live out the compassion of Matthew 25 in partnership with River of Life Church. More than 20 years ago, “The Michael Project” first stepped into Chikurubi Female Prison with a simple, courageous conviction: children should not be forgotten simply because their mothers are behind bars. What began as a small preschool inside the prison soon grew into a holistic ministry offering education, spiritual formation, emotional care, and family restoration for children affected by incarceration. As this vision expanded, River of Life Church joined hands with the work, helping move ministry beyond the prison walls and into family-style homes where children could flourish
In 2008, Hands of Hope purchased the Shalom Home and opened as the first residential expression of this calling—a place of refuge for children with nowhere safe to go. River of Life and Hands of Hope together established three family-style units, each led by a devoted mother and auntie, ensuring that vulnerable children would grow up in homes marked by stability, dignity, and the presence of Christ. Today, that same heartbeat continues.
Meet brothers David (7) and Jacob (4), who joined the Shalom family 2 weeks ago, bringing the number of children to 33. Their mother is currently in prison awaiting trial for murder, and in this moment of deep uncertainty, these precious boys have been welcomed into a home where they will be nurtured, protected, and surrounded by the love of Jesus.
Daily life includes education and development—schooling, tutoring, and practical life-skills that prepare them for a flourishing future. And whenever possible reunification support is pursued, helping children reconnect with healthy family structures so they can return home with dignity and stability.
As we welcome these two precious young boys into the Shalom family, we are reminded once again that this ministry is sustained by the faithful love, prayers, and generosity of people like you. Thank you for standing with us, for believing in the worth of every child, and for helping us live out the words of Jesus: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did it to Me.” Your partnership makes this work possible, and we are deeply grateful.
Website: hohafrica.org
glen@valleychurch.org
For Jesus’ sake and for the children,
Glen and Patty