Once Abandoned and Starving—But Now Filled with Hope

When Japeth’s father walked out on him and his mom, Rose, they were left to fend for themselves. She worked hard to buy some land and build the house they live in now. 

Rose explained, “I do any work my hands can find: housework, farm work, washing clothes, but sometimes there are no jobs, and then it’s hard to even have enough money for food. It troubled me to see Japeth go to bed without food, but I did everything I could to show him I wasn’t going to give up.”

Many times, Japeth went to school only to be sent home because his school fees weren’t paid. 

Rose said, “When he wasn’t in school, he often went out with children who were bad company. And back then, he was very stubborn and refused to help me with chores around the house.”

Then a friend invited Japeth to Taveta Children’s Assistance, a ministry supported by CBN’s Orphan’s Promise.

Japeth said, “We were given tea and bread. Then we had church, and after that we ate a big meal. Now, I go there every Sunday. I’ve learned so much about God and the Bible, and I apply those teachings to my life. I gave my life to Jesus and was baptized by the Pastor. When I was baptized, I felt like I was being transformed. Now, when I face challenges, I run to Jesus. I speak to Him and He answers me and meets my needs.”

Rose said, “Japeth has changed in many ways. He is a good boy and he stays away from bad company. Sundays, I feel at peace, because he goes to TCA. I know he will eat and be full and I am so happy when he comes home from church with food packets.”

Japeth now attends school regularly, because Orphan’s Promise also pays his school fees. 

“Being able to go to school is a miracle from God,” said Japeth. “Education will give me a good future. I love everything about school, my teachers, my fellow students.” 

The change in Japeth prompted rose to start going with him to church.

“I was so proud the first time my son invited me to church,” said Rose. “I had an idea about God, but I didn’t know Him personally. After coming to TCA for a while, I received salvation and I feel a lot of peace in my life now. I trust in God and pray often. The help we receive with food and school fees makes it easier for me to provide food for my family.”

Japeth said, “We have been transformed as a family. Thank you for your support. You’ve given me hope for tomorrow.” 

Rose said, “I am grateful that Japeth knows God. When the things of this world try to overwhelm him, I know he will remain steadfast in his faith. I thank God for the help you have given us. May God bless you.”