Photographing for Orphan Outreach – Capturing Grace on a  journey through Nepal

In the heart of Lalitpur, Kathmandu, lies the Godawari Slum. We walked along the community until we came to a small home where we were warmly greeted by Rupa and Ronisha, a mother and her daughter. As we sat on their front porch, Rupa began to share their family’s challenges and journey toward healing and hope after joining their community’s after school program not far from their home. 

For Ronisha, this program is more than just a place to study; it’s a sanctuary away from the shadows of abuse that she’s experienced. 

Ronisha fell victim to abuse from a neighbor boy. The trauma threatened to overshadow her childhood but amidst the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged when she joined the after school program. Here, Ronisha found not only safety but a sense of belonging and purpose.

Rupa, burdened by the weight of poverty and illiteracy, dreamed of a better future for her daughter. It provided Ronisha with not only a proper meal and education but also a safe haven where she could flourish academically and emotionally.

“I am deeply satisfied with the program because my child is getting a proper meal, a proper education, and she also gets treated well,” shares Rupa with gratitude in her voice. “It’s a child-friendly learning center, and I am very happy and grateful for everything that the teachers are doing.”

The benefits of the program extend beyond education. Rupa explains, “We are very grateful for the afterschool program because it has helped Ronisha to improve her studies, and it has also helped us alleviate our financial burdens.” The provision of school supplies, winter clothing, and snacks ease their financial burden. 

For Ronisha, the afterschool program is a source of joy. “I enjoy spending time with my friends at the center,” she mumbles with a shy smile. “I get to learn new things, finish my homework, and really enjoy the annual picnics.” The program not only nurtures her academic growth but also fosters friendships and fun-filled memories.

“Orphan Outreach partners with NMCN to provide children with a safe and hope-filled after-school environment. Through child sponsorship, financial resources, and operational support, we support the educational, emotional, and physical needs of each child. Additionally, administrative support and evaluation are being provided to determine enhancements to the program through church engagement and mission teams. Long-term goals include the purchase of private land so that a safe, secure school may be built, opening the door to more programs including bible study.”

I invite you to learn more about how you can sponsor Ronisha or others from the after-school program.

FROM OUR TIME IN NEPAL