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	<title>Lifesong for Orphans</title>
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	<link>https://www.lifesong.org/</link>
	<description>Bringing Joy and Purpose to Orphans.</description>
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	<title>Lifesong for Orphans</title>
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		<title>How Holistic Care Turned Into Gospel Hope | Tanzania Update</title>
		<link>https://lifesong.org/2026/06/how-holistic-care-turned-into-gospel-hope-tanzania/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Cecilia Fulmer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Country Update]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifesong News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Orphan Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tanzania]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[artist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gospel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holistic Gospel-centered care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holstic care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hope]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://lifesong.org/?p=1164520</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>After losing stability at home and living on the streets, Dabar found Gospel hope through the care he received from our team in Tanzania. Today, Dabar is growing in his faith, focusing on his education, and dreams of becoming an artist. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/06/how-holistic-care-turned-into-gospel-hope-tanzania/">How Holistic Care Turned Into Gospel Hope | Tanzania Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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<p><em>As a team, we are deeply encouraged by Dabars’s story and the work God has done in his life. When he arrived at our ministry in Tanzania, he carried deep loss and uncertainty, but through Christ-centered orphan care, he has experienced safety, love, and the hope of the Gospel. We have watched him grow in his faith, find joy in Jesus, and begin to step into the future God has for him.</em></p>



<p><em>We are grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside children like Dabar and to see lives transformed through Christ.</em></p>



<p><em>—Tanzania Team</em></p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-after-dabar-s-father-abandoned-the-family"><strong>After Dabar&#8217;s* father abandoned the family,</strong></h2>



<p>Dabar&#8217;s mother became solely responsible for caring for him. But when she became seriously ill, she could no longer provide food, school fees, and other basic needs.</p>



<p>As the situation worsened, Dabar eventually ran away and began living on the streets, begging for food and money, just to survive. </p>



<p><strong>During this time, he didn&#8217;t know Christ and had little hope for his future. </strong></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-everything-began-to-change-when-social-workers-brought-dabar-to-our-team-in-tanzania"><strong>Everything began to change when social workers brought Dabar to our team in Tanzania.</strong></h3>



<p>Faithful caregivers welcomed Dabar into a safe environment where they provided shelter, meals, educational support, counseling, daily discipleship, and Gospel-centered, holistic care. </p>



<p><strong>As Dabar learned more about Jesus and studied God’s Word, he began trusting Christ and growing in his faith.</strong></p>



<p>In December 2025, Dabar accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and later chose to be baptized. Through the care he received, Dabar not only found safety and provision, but also discovered the hope of the Gospel.</p>



<p>When asked about his time with our team, he shares: </p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“I learned about Jesus, and now I have hope for my future.”</strong></em></p>



<p><strong>Today, Dabar is filled with joy, focused on his education, and dreams of becoming an artist.</strong> His favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:4, which says, &#8220;Rejoice in the Lord always. And again I say, Rejoice!&#8221;</p>



<p>A caregiver shares: </p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“Dabar has changed greatly since arriving on our campus. He is now joyful, peaceful, and focused on his education.”</strong></em></p>



<p>Dabar&#8217;s story is a beautiful reminder of how Gospel-centered, holistic care can transform a child&#8217;s life for eternity. </p>



<p><em>*names changed to protect the identities of the children we serve</em> </p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-pray-for-tanzania"><strong>Pray for Tanzania</strong></h3>



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<li><strong>Praise</strong> God for Dabar&#8217;s salvation and baptism, and for the clear transformation in his life through Gospel-centered, holistic care.</li>



<li><strong>Pray </strong>for Dabar&#8217;s continued healing from his past and for lasting peace found in Christ </li>



<li><strong>Praise</strong> God for safety, provision, and discipleship Dabar is receiving from our team in Tanzania. </li>



<li><strong>Pray</strong> for team in Tanzania as they continue to faithfully serve, disciple, and care for vulnerable children.</li>



<li><strong>Pray</strong> that Dabar will continue to grow strong in his faith and remain rooted in God’s Word.</li>
</ul>



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<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Join our prayer team to receive monthly prayer requests &amp; praises from across our ministry.</strong></p>



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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-will-you-help-orphaned-and-vulnerable-children-in-tanzania-experience-the-hope-of-the-gospel"><strong>Will you help orphaned and vulnerable children in Tanzania experience the hope of the Gospel?</strong></h4>



<p class="has-text-align-center">When you give to Lifesong, you show orphaned and vulnerable children they are <em>seen, known, and loved</em> through Gospel-centered holistic care<em>.</em> Thanks to TMG Foundation, <strong>100% of your gift goes directly to helping orphaned and vulnerable children. </strong></p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-red-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://give.lifesong.org/lifesong/tanzania" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>GIVE TODAY</strong></a></div>
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<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/06/how-holistic-care-turned-into-gospel-hope-tanzania/">How Holistic Care Turned Into Gospel Hope | Tanzania Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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		<title>How a Boy Named Thanksgiving Learned to Dream Again: Misgana’s Story</title>
		<link>https://lifesong.org/2026/06/misganas-story/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Trisha Priebe]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 15:00:24 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Lifesong News]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://lifesong.org/?p=1163135</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>when he began walking his mother to hospitals, waking early to collect medicine for her tuberculosis treatments, helping care for his younger brother and little sister while trying to stay in school himself.</p>
<p>And yet, when he tells the story now, he tells it with gratitude. Hear his story in his own words ...</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/06/misganas-story/">How a Boy Named Thanksgiving Learned to Dream Again: Misgana&#8217;s Story</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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<iframe title="Misgana&#039;s Story | Ethiopia" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1194462457?h=b3cfb72fd4&amp;dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin"></iframe>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misgana-was-just-a-young-boy"><strong>Misgana was just a young boy</strong></h2>



<p>when he began walking his mother to hospitals, waking early to collect medicine for her tuberculosis treatments, helping care for his younger brother and little sister while trying to stay in school himself.</p>



<p>And yet, when he tells the story now, as a university student in Ethiopia studying civil engineering, he does not tell it with bitterness.</p>



<p>He tells it with gratitude. Which feels fitting somehow, because his name—Misgana—literally means <em>thanksgiving</em>.</p>



<p><strong>And gratitude runs through his story like a river.</strong></p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misgana-grew-up-without-his-father"><strong>Misgana grew up without his father, </strong></h3>



<p id="h-misgana-grew-up-without-his-father">never knowing him or the love and protection a father should provide.</p>



<p>So his mother worked tirelessly to keep food on the table. She cleaned homes, washed clothes, and sold chickens during holidays just to provide for her children.</p>



<p>Then she found work as a cleaner at Lifesong.</p>



<p>And slowly, things began to improve.</p>



<p>In Ethiopia, millions of children remain vulnerable to poverty, instability, and educational disruption. UNICEF estimates that <a href="https://www.unicef.org/ethiopia/learning-and-development?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than 9 million children</a> across the country are currently out of school due to conflict, displacement, and poverty. For many children, especially those who have lost parents or are helping support younger siblings, education can feel impossibly out of reach.</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“When my mother started constant work, our life started being better. We started getting enough food and clothes.”</strong></em></p>



<p>Misgana, his brother, and his sister also began attending Lifesong, where they received two meals each day, school supplies, clothing, and the opportunity to learn in a safe, caring environment.</p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2025.06-Ethiopia_Day-1_00015.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1164169" srcset="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2025.06-Ethiopia_Day-1_00015.jpg 1200w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2025.06-Ethiopia_Day-1_00015-800x450.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-but-the-deeper-impact-was-something-harder-to-measure"><strong>But the deeper impact was something harder to measure.</strong></h3>



<p>At Lifesong, orphan care is more than meeting needs. It is holistic, Gospel-centered care that helps vulnerable children survive today while preparing them to lead tomorrow.</p>



<p><strong>Through education, daily meals, discipleship, mentoring, and consistent support, children are given not only stability—but the opportunity to dream again.</strong></p>



<p>At Lifesong schools in Ethiopia, students are receiving quality education, hearing the Gospel, and building a foundation for the future through programs designed to equip vulnerable children to flourish academically, spiritually, and emotionally.</p>



<p><strong>For Misgana, Lifesong became more than a school. </strong></p>



<p>It became a place to belong and to grow. A place where the Gospel gave him not only hope for eternity, but courage for tomorrow.</p>



<p>Every school day began with Scripture. Teachers spoke openly about the love of Christ. And over time, those truths began shaping him.</p>



<p>Misgana placed his faith in Jesus.</p>



<p>And then, over time, something <em>else</em> began to happen.</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“My future plans started to look bright. I started dreaming of my future.&#8221;</strong></em></p>
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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/0Y5A6105.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1164177" srcset="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/0Y5A6105.jpg 1200w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/0Y5A6105-800x450.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-then-overnight-childhood-gave-way-to-survival"><strong>Then, overnight, childhood gave way to survival.</strong></h3>



<p>Misgana was 14 years old when his mother died from tuberculosis, leaving him responsible for his younger siblings.</p>



<p>He worked construction jobs while still attending school. He transported materials by donkey cart. Hauled stone and cement. Took whatever work he could find to help feed his brother and sister while continuing his education.</p>



<p>And somehow, even in those years, he did not let go of the future he had begun to imagine.</p>



<p>In fact, the work itself helped shape the dream.</p>



<p>As a child, Misgana loved construction sites. Loved watching things being built. Eventually, he realized he wanted to become an engineer.</p>



<p>Today, that dream is becoming reality.</p>



<p>And his story is not the only one.</p>



<p>Across Ethiopia, vulnerable children who once faced overwhelming obstacles are now graduating, pursuing careers, and stepping into leadership because someone chose to invest in them early—with consistent care, education, and the hope of the Gospel.</p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/0Y5A6192-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1164173" srcset="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/0Y5A6192-1.jpg 1200w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/0Y5A6192-1-800x450.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misgana-is-now-studying-civil-engineering-in-ethiopia"><strong>Misgana is now studying civil engineering in Ethiopia.</strong></h3>



<p>But perhaps the most beautiful part of his story is not simply where he is going. It&#8217;s also how clearly he remembers those still behind him. Of vulnerable children in Ethiopia, Misgana says—</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“I know the struggle they are passing through. I passed through that struggle. They are my people. When I start working as an engineer, I want to support them, too.”</strong></em></p>



<p>So now, he dreams not only of building structures, but of helping build a better future for his country.</p>



<p>That is the beautiful thing about the Gospel. In the Kingdom of God, vulnerable children are not forgotten.</p>



<p>They are discipled.<br>Nurtured.<br>Equipped.<br><em>Loved.</em></p>



<p>And sometimes, by the grace of God, the child once carried by others grows into the kind of leader who begins carrying others too.</p>



<p>That is the kind of Kingdom work your generosity makes possible—not changing a country from the outside, but helping children already full of God-given purpose grow into the futures He has placed before them.</p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/0Y5A6065-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1164172" srcset="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/0Y5A6065-1.jpg 1200w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/0Y5A6065-1-800x450.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misgana-often-refers-to-psalm-23-6-when-reflecting-on-his-life"><strong>Misgana often refers to Psalm 23:6 when reflecting on his life—</strong></h3>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.</strong></em></p>



<p>And maybe that verse explains his story better than anything else could. Because when you listen to him speak, you realize Misgana doesn&#8217;t primarily see his life through the lens of what he lost.</p>



<p>He sees it through the lens of the God who gave a vulnerable boy a place to belong and room to dream again.</p>



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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-today-there-are-vulnerable-children-in-ethiopia-who-are-still-waiting-for-someone-to-believe-their-future-can-be-different"><strong>Today, there are vulnerable children in Ethiopia who are still waiting for someone to believe their future can be different.</strong></h4>



<p class="has-text-align-center">When you give to Lifesong, you help provide vulnerable children with education, meals, discipleship, mentoring, and the consistent care they need to grow into the leaders God created them to be. Thanks to Manna Foundation, <strong>100% of your gift goes directly to helping orphaned and vulnerable children. </strong></p>



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<p></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/06/misganas-story/">How a Boy Named Thanksgiving Learned to Dream Again: Misgana&#8217;s Story</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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		<title>Miriam’s Journey of Transformation | Zambia Update</title>
		<link>https://lifesong.org/2026/05/miriams-journey-of-transformation-zambia/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Cecilia Fulmer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 15:12:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Country Update]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifesong News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Zambia]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://lifesong.org/?p=1164249</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Raised by her older sister after losing both parents, Miriam grew up in a crowded two-room home where food was often scarce and the future felt uncertain.<br />
Everything changed in 2017 when Miriam was was enrolled at Lifesong. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/miriams-journey-of-transformation-zambia/">Miriam’s Journey of Transformation | Zambia Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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<p><em>As a team, we have had the privilege of witnessing Miriam’s transformation firsthand. When she arrived at Lifesong, she was carrying deep loss and uncertainty. Over time, God used a safe home, faithful teachers, and discipleship to bring healing, stability, and belonging.</em></p>



<p><em>Her transformation is both academic and spiritual as she has grown in faith and confidence. Today, she is stepping into her future with boldness and purpose.</em></p>



<p><em>We give God all the glory for the transformation He has done and continues to do in Miriam’s life. If you would like to be part of stories like Miriam’s, we invite you to pray, give, or sponsor a child today.</em></p>



<p><em>—Zambia Team</em></p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-left" id="h-raised-by-her-older-sister-after-losing-both-parents"><strong>Raised by her older sister after losing both parents</strong>,</h2>



<p>Miriam* grew up in a crowded two-room home where food was often scarce and the future felt uncertain.</p>



<p>Much of her childhood was marked by loneliness and hardship, but even in those difficult years, God was preparing a new story for her life. </p>



<p><strong>Everything changed in 2017 when Miriam was enrolled at Lifesong. </strong></p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/TEACHERS-DAYS_79.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1164499"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Above: Children we serve in Zambia walk to school. <br>Top: Miriam receives vocational training in electrical technology and is preparing to study engineering at university. </figcaption></figure>



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<p>For the first time, she experienced consistent meals, caring teachers, discipleship, and a safe place to call home. She shares:</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“<em><strong><mark style="background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)" class="has-inline-color has-bright-blue-color">I remember one teacher was always speaking words of hope into our lives and reminding us that our future mattered.</mark></strong></em>”</strong></em></p>



<p>After our team had learned more about her difficult living situation, Miriam was welcomed into the safe home, where she found not only stability, but family.</p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/TEACHERS-DAYS_137.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1164501"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Miriam with her friends from Lifesong who love and support her like family. </figcaption></figure>



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<p><strong>Through the love and encouragement she received at Lifesong, Miriam</strong> <strong>grew in confidence, faith, and purpose. </strong></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-in-2024-she-chose-to-follow-jesus-inspired-by-isaiah-6-8-here-am-i-send-me"><strong>In 2024, she chose to follow Jesus, inspired by Isaiah 6:8: &#8220;Here am I. Send me.&#8221;</strong></h3>



<p>Today, Miriam has completed secondary school and is pursuing vocational training in Electrical Technology as she prepares to study Engineering at university. When looking back on her journey thus far, she shares:</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“Sometimes I get emotional when I think about where I came from. A young girl who once sat alone, hungry, and without hope now has dreams and a future.”</strong></em></p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/TEACHERS-DAYS_22.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1164504"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Miriam attends electricity classes. </figcaption></figure>



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<p>The young girl who once felt forgotten now has big dreams of becoming an engineer and wants other orphaned and vulnerable children to experience the same belonging and love that changed her life. </p>



<p><em>*names changed to protect the identities of the children we serve</em></p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-pray-for-zambia"><strong>Pray for Zambia</strong></h3>



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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Praise</strong> God for providing Miriam with a safe home, education, discipleship, and a loving community.</li>



<li><strong>Pray </strong>that Miriam would continue growing in her faith and relationship with Jesus. </li>



<li><strong>Praise</strong> God that Miriam chose to follow Jesus. </li>



<li><strong>Pray</strong> for protection, encouragement, and community for young adults, like Miriam, stepping into new seasons of life.</li>



<li><strong>Praise</strong> God for His faithfulness in transforming lives through love, care, and discipleship.</li>
</ul>



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<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Join our prayer team to receive monthly prayer requests &amp; praises from across our ministry.</strong></p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-navy-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://lifesong.org/prayer-team/" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>JOIN THE PRAYER TEAM</strong></a></div>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-will-you-help-orphaned-and-vulnerable-children-in-zambia-experience-the-hope-of-the-gospel"><strong>Will you help orphaned and vulnerable children in Zambia experience the hope of the Gospel?</strong></h4>



<p class="has-text-align-center">When you give to Lifesong, you show orphaned and vulnerable children they are <em>seen, known, and loved</em> through Gospel-centered holistic care<em>.</em> Thanks to TMG Foundation, <strong>100% of your gift goes directly to helping orphaned and vulnerable children. </strong></p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-red-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://give.lifesong.org/lifesong/zambia" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>GIVE TODAY</strong></a></div>
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<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/miriams-journey-of-transformation-zambia/">Miriam’s Journey of Transformation | Zambia Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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		<title>Introducing Lifesong Philippines, Where Family Is the Answer</title>
		<link>https://lifesong.org/2026/05/introducing-lifesong-philippines-family/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Oksana Murphy]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 13:18:15 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Country Update]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifesong News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Orphan Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philippines]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://lifesong.org/?p=1163656</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>What if every child knew the safety of family? What if they didn’t have to wonder if they’d ever be chosen? Today, we’re grateful to introduce a new ministry partner: Lifesong Philippines.   </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/introducing-lifesong-philippines-family/">Introducing Lifesong Philippines, Where Family Is the Answer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-if-every-child-knew-the-safety-of-family"><strong><strong>What if every child knew the safety of family?</strong></strong></h2>



<p>What if they didn’t have to wonder if they’d ever be chosen?</p>



<p>Across the Philippines, millions of children grow up vulnerable to poverty, abandonment, exploitation, and institutional care. Some wait in children’s homes, hoping a family will come for them. Others are raised by struggling relatives or age out of care without anyone to guide them into adulthood.</p>



<p><strong>Today, we’re grateful to announce Lifesong now serves orphaned and vulnerable children in the Philippines. We recently partnered with a local ministry known in the Philippines as Generations Home. </strong></p>



<p>In the Philippines, our team is working to strengthen families, equip caregivers, and walk alongside 168 orphaned and vulnerable children and young adults through every step of their journey. Watch the impact below—</p>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Generations—Home" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1iEdnffW4i0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-team-believes-family-is-the-answer"><strong><strong><strong><strong>Our team believes family is the answer.</strong></strong></strong></strong></h3>



<p>Today in the Philippines, there are more than 1,112 state-run and private children’s institutions caring for over 161,075 orphaned and vulnerable children. Beyond institutional care, millions more children face vulnerability due to poverty, abandonment, family instability, trafficking, abuse, and exploitation.</p>



<p><strong>These children long for what every child deserves: A safe home. A loving family. And for someone to choose them.</strong></p>



<p>One young boy, still waiting to be adopted, shares, “There were seven of us when I arrived at the children’s home. Now, I’m the only one left.”</p>



<p>Month after month, he watched other children leave with their new families, while he remained behind.</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“The only thing I wish for every year is not to be alone anymore.”</strong></em></p>



<p>Lifesong Philippines, known as Generations Home in the Philippines, was founded by believers who saw the orphan crisis up close and asked God a simple question: “Where do we find families?”</p>



<p><strong>Soon after, the answer became clear: Families are in the Church.</strong></p>



<p>From the very beginning, they committed to building a ministry that partners closely with local churches, social workers, caregivers, and communities to help children experience families where they are <em>seen, known, and loved. &nbsp;</em></p>



<p><a href="https://lifesong.org/countries/philippines/">Lifesong Philippines</a> serves children and families across the full continuum of care:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Supporting pregnant women in crisis</li>



<li>Guiding foster care and adoption placements</li>



<li>Training caregivers in trauma-informed care</li>



<li>Mentoring youth aging out of care</li>



<li>Mobilizing churches and university students to advocate for orphaned and vulnerable children</li>
</ul>



<p>Our heart is simple: “We won’t stop until every child is in a safe and loving home.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-in-country-adoption"><strong><strong><strong>In-Country Adoption</strong></strong></strong></h3>



<p>In the Philippines, adoption opportunities have historically been extremely limited. <strong>Before Lifesong Philippines became an adoption agency, there were only two adoption agencies serving the entire country.</strong></p>



<p>Now, orphaned children are being matched with loving Christian families.</p>



<p>In the words of one adopted child,</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“For me, to love is to choose. I was loved and chosen.”</strong></em></p>



<p>Because of adoption, this child knows the safety of family, the comfort of being embraced, and the joy of simply being a child.</p>



<p>He shares, “I wish every child could experience this.”</p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1333" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Website-Photo_08.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1163949"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Above: Children we serve in the Philippines experience the love of God and family.  <br>Top: A young boy we serve waits to be adopted. </figcaption></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-orphan-prevention"><strong><strong>Orphan Prevention</strong></strong></h3>



<p>Some children become vulnerable long before they are born.</p>



<p>A vulnerable mother shared,</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“If only someone reached out. Then, I’d be able to stand on my own two feet and have the courage to face this life. I’d find the strength to keep my family alive.”</strong></em></p>



<p>Through practical support, counseling, community, and holistic, Gospel-centered care, Lifesong Philippines comes alongside vulnerable mothers so they don’t have to walk alone and so their children can thrive.</p>



<p>Over the past eight years, our team in the Philippines has supported more than 100 mothers in crisis. <strong>We praise God that every child served through this program has remained safe from abandonment, trafficking, and neglect.</strong></p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1333" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Website-Photo_05.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1163948"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A vulnerable mother receives the support she needs to take care of her children. </figcaption></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-youth-into-adulthood"><strong><strong>Supporting Youth Into Adulthood</strong></strong></h3>



<p>Not every child in care is adopted. Some young people age out of the system carrying deep wounds and little support.</p>



<p>One young woman shared, “Nobody chose me. I never got adopted by a family.”</p>



<p>Yet even in her loneliness, God provided people who became family to her through the local church and caring community around her. </p>



<p><strong>Lifesong Philippines mentors young adults aging out of care, providing scholarships, discipleship, church camps, life-skills training, and lifelong relationships.</strong></p>



<p>This is what happens when the Body of Christ steps into hard places with the love of Jesus. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-as-lifesong-expands-into-the-philippines-you-have-an-opportunity-to-be-part-of-the-story-god-is-writing-there"><strong>As Lifesong expands into the Philippines, you have an opportunity to be part of the story God is writing there. </strong></h3>



<p><strong>Your prayers and generous support help children find families, help orphaned young adults discover purpose, and help vulnerable families stay together.</strong> </p>



<p>As one of the children we serve in the Philippines shares,</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“Family shouldn’t be a luxury.”</strong></em></p>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-will-you-help-orphaned-and-vulnerable-child-ren-in-the-philippines-experience-the-hope-of-the-gospel"><strong>Will you help orphaned and vulnerable child<strong>ren in the Philippines experience the hope of the Gospel?</strong></strong></h4>



<p class="has-text-align-center">When you give to Lifesong, you show orphaned and vulnerable children they are <em>seen, known, and loved</em> through Gospel-centered holistic care<em>.</em> Thanks to TMG Foundation, <strong>100% of your gift goes directly to helping orphaned and vulnerable children. </strong></p>



<div style="height:30px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



<div class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex">
<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-red-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://give.lifesong.org/lifesong/lifesong-philippines" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>GIVE TODAY</strong></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/introducing-lifesong-philippines-family/">Introducing Lifesong Philippines, Where Family Is the Answer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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		<title>Sovanna’s New Life in Christ | Cambodia Update</title>
		<link>https://lifesong.org/2026/05/sovannas-new-life-in-christ-cambodia/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Cecilia Fulmer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Cambodia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Country Update]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifesong News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Orphan Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[alcoholic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christ alone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[new life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[testimony]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://lifesong.org/?p=1164142</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>God continually reminds us through stories like Sovanna’s that He is faithfully at work across Cambodia, bringing new life in unexpected places. It is a joy to see orphaned and vulnerable children and families experiencing transformation through faith, education, and community. As a team, we are grateful to partner with those on the ground who [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/sovannas-new-life-in-christ-cambodia/">Sovanna’s New Life in Christ | Cambodia Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1333" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sovanna-worship-Cambodia.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1164229"/></figure>



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<div class="wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-bea02a06 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained">
<p><em>God continually reminds us through stories like Sovanna’s that He is faithfully at work across Cambodia, bringing new life in unexpected places. It is a joy to see orphaned and vulnerable children and families experiencing transformation through faith, education, and community.</em></p>



<p><em>As a team, we are grateful to partner with those on the ground who are investing daily in the next generation. We remain encouraged by what God is doing and expectant for all that is still to come.</em></p>



<p><em>—Cambodia Team</em></p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-sovanna-was-in-first-grade-her-world-changed-suddenly"><strong>When Sovanna* was in first grade, her world changed suddenly. </strong></h2>



<p>Her father died from alcohol poisoning, leaving deep grief and significant debt for her mother and family to repay. With three children to raise and limited resources, each day became a struggle to survive. </p>



<p>Sovanna&#8217;s mother worked tirelessly, but the burden was heavy. By sixth grade, Sovanna faced the heartbreaking possibility of dropping out of school to help support her family.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-even-then-god-was-writing-a-story-of-new-life"><strong>Even then, God was writing a story of new life.</strong></h3>



<p><strong>One day, a group of Christians came to her village bringing Christmas gifts and a message of hope. </strong>As Sovanna opened her gift, she heard the story of Jesus in a way she could understand for the first time. </p>



<p>At just nine years old, she ran home to tell her mother, carrying the message of new life she had encountered.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-that-moment-was-the-beginning-of-transformation-for-her-entire-family"><strong>That moment was the beginning of transformation for her entire family.</strong></h3>



<p><strong>Soon after, Sovanna, her mother, and her siblings came to faith in Christ. </strong>A local church community formed in their home, and for the first time in years, God filled their household with peace, joy, and new life in Christ.</p>



<p>Financial challenges still remained, and Sovanna’s education was again at risk. <strong>But through local support, she and her sister were welcomed by our team into a place where they could attend school and continue learning.</strong></p>



<p>For Sovanna, it was life-changing. She says,</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“God is my supporter, my provider, and gives me whatever I need&#8230; I can&#8217;t describe how good He is.”</strong></em></p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sovanna-teaching-math-Cambodia.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1164230"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Above: Sovanna teaches math to 7th and 8th-grade students. <br>Top: Sovanna spends time worshipping God with her peers. </figcaption></figure>



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<p><strong>Education became more than an opportunity</strong>—it became a meaningful reflection of the new life she received. She started to see her future as a way to help others facing the same struggles she once did. In her words, </p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“If we study, we can help other people.”</strong></em></p>



<p>One day, Sovanna hopes to become a teacher, and already, that calling is taking shape. Her favorite subject is English, but she is also very good at math, which she teaches in the evenings to 7th and 8th-grade students at the center.&nbsp;And each week, she joins older students who travel to nearby villages to teach children and share the Gospel, driven by the hope she has received. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-for-sovanna-freedom-goes-deeper-than-her-circumstances-it-is-found-in-christ-alone"><strong>For Sovanna, freedom goes deeper than her circumstances—it is found in Christ alone.</strong></h3>



<p id="h-for-sreynai-freedom-is-deeper-than-circumstances-it-is-found-in-christ-she-holds-tightly-to-jeremiah-33-3-which-says">Sovanna holds tightly to Jeremiah 33:3: <em>Call to Me, and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.</em> </p>



<p>Still today, God&#8217;s promises remain. He is writing her a story full of faith, courage, and a growing future. </p>



<p><em>*names changed to protect the identities of the children we serve</em> </p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-pray-for-cambodia"><strong>Pray for Cambodia</strong></h3>



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<li><strong>Praise</strong> God for Sovanna&#8217;s journey from loss into new life through faith in Christ, and for the transformation that has taken place in her family.</li>



<li><strong>Pray</strong> for continued provision for her family and for strength as she balances school, ministry, and daily responsibilities.</li>



<li><strong>Praise</strong> God for the opportunity for Sovanna to remain in school and continue her education.</li>



<li><strong>Pray </strong>that Sovanna would continue to grow in her relationship with Christ and remain rooted in His truth.</li>



<li><strong>Pray </strong>that God would continue to open hearts to the Gospel, strengthen the local church, and raise up faithful leaders like Sovanna who will share Christ in their communities.</li>
</ul>



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<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Join our prayer team to receive monthly prayer requests &amp; praises from across our ministry.</strong></p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-navy-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://lifesong.org/prayer-team/" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>JOIN THE PRAYER TEAM</strong></a></div>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-will-you-help-orphaned-and-vulnerable-children-in-cambodia-experience-the-hope-of-the-gospel"><strong>Will you help orphaned and vulnerable children in Cambodia experience the hope of the Gospel?</strong></h4>



<p class="has-text-align-center">When you give to Lifesong, you show orphaned and vulnerable children they are <em>seen, known, and loved</em> through Gospel-centered holistic care<em>.</em> Thanks to TMG Foundation, <strong>100% of your gift goes directly to helping orphaned and vulnerable children. </strong></p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-red-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://give.lifesong.org/lifesong/cambodia" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>GIVE TODAY</strong></a></div>
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<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/sovannas-new-life-in-christ-cambodia/">Sovanna’s New Life in Christ | Cambodia Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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		<title>How to Fund an Adoption in 2026</title>
		<link>https://lifesong.org/2026/05/fund-an-adoption-in-2026/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Trisha Priebe]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 06:47:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Adoption Funding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifesong News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Post-Adoption]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adopting in 2026]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adoption]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[adoption funding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fund your adoption]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[matching grant]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://lifesong.org/?p=1162638</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Considering adoption? Not sure how to fund it? This guide walks you through everything—the major grant and loan programs, how to fundraise effectively, and how the 2026 adoption tax credit works.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/fund-an-adoption-in-2026/">How to Fund an Adoption in 2026</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="731" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/How-to-Fund-Your-Adoption-1200x731.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1163217" srcset="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/How-to-Fund-Your-Adoption-1200x731.jpg 1200w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/How-to-Fund-Your-Adoption-800x487.jpg 800w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/How-to-Fund-Your-Adoption-1536x935.jpg 1536w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/How-to-Fund-Your-Adoption.jpg 1936w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jonathan and Kristen have adopted three times with the help of Lifesong adoption financial assistance.</figcaption></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-for-families-who-have-seriously-considered-adoption"><strong>For families who have seriously considered adoption,</strong></h2>



<p>the cost is the single most common reason they don&#8217;t move forward. That statistic is heartbreaking—and it doesn&#8217;t have to be true for you.</p>



<p>There is an entire ecosystem of organizations, grants, loans, fundraising tools, and tax benefits built specifically to help you get there. You don&#8217;t have to figure it out alone, and you almost certainly don&#8217;t have to come up with the full amount yourself.</p>



<p>This guide walks you through everything—the major grant and loan programs, how to fundraise effectively, and how the 2026 adoption tax credit works.</p>



<p><strong>Here&#8217;s how to fund your adoption in 2026—</strong></p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifesong-for-orphans-adoption-funding">Lifesong for Orphans Adoption Funding </h3>



<p><a href="http://lifesong.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifesong.org</a></p>



<p>Adoption Grants typically $6k–$10k, based on financial need<br>Adoption Loans typically $8k–$14k, based on financial need</p>



<p>We offer direct grants, matching grants, interest-free loans, and our <a href="https://mystory.lifesongfororphans.org/stories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mySTORY online fundraising platform</a>. <br>Review in 3–6 weeks after submission.</p>



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<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><strong>Matching grants</strong> are one of the most powerful fundraising catalysts available. When donors know their gift will be matched, giving increases dramatically; families typically raise 2–3x what they would have otherwise, turning a single grant into a multiplier for everything else you do to fundraise.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-grants-amp-interest-free-loans"><strong>Additional</strong> <strong>Grants &amp; Interest-free Loans</strong></h3>



<p>These three organizations are established and well-funded in the adoption financing world. All of them require home study approval before you can apply for loans and grants (more on that timing below).</p>



<p>Here&#8217;s what each offers and what the process looks like:</p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="416" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Fund-an-Adoption.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1163686" style="width:177px;height:auto" srcset="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Fund-an-Adoption.png 1024w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Fund-an-Adoption-800x325.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abba-fund">Abba Fund  </h6>



<p><a href="http://abbafund.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">abbafund.org</a></p>



<p>Loans typically $10k–$20k, based on financial need</p>



<p>Highest loan ceiling of the three. Loan applications reviewed in 4–6 weeks; fundraising pages approved in days. Home study not required to start a fundraising page.</p>
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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="935" height="241" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Fund-an-Adoption-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1163688" style="aspect-ratio:3.8805429864253393;width:203px;height:auto" srcset="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Fund-an-Adoption-1.png 935w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Fund-an-Adoption-1-800x206.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 935px) 100vw, 935px" /></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pathways-for-little-feet">Pathways for Little Feet</h6>



<p><a href="http://pathwaysforlittlefeet.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathwaysforlittlefeet.org</a></p>



<p>Loans typically average $10k, based on financial need</p>



<p>Offers interest-free loans with flexible repayment terms. One of the faster reviewers—decisions usually occur within 1–2 weeks. Expedited review available on request.</p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="670" height="125" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Fund-an-Adoption-2.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1163692" style="width:213px;height:auto"/></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-show-hope">Show Hope</h6>



<p><a href="https://showhope.org/our-work/adoption-aid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">showhope.org</a></p>



<p>Grants are typically $8k–$12k</p>



<p>Adoption aid grants for families working with a licensed 501(c)(3) placement agency. Applications are reviewed quarterly: March, June, September, December.</p>



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<p class="has-text-align-left is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size">Apply to multiple programs at once. There&#8217;s no rule that says you can only pursue one—and layering a grant with a loan and a fundraiser is exactly how many families close the gap.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-21-more-grants-amp-loans-worth-exploring"><strong>21 More Grants &amp; Loans Worth Exploring</strong></h3>



<p>Beyond the grants listed above, there&#8217;s a wide network of smaller and regional organizations. Some focus on specific types of adoption (international, disability, foster); others are more general. Research each one carefully—requirements, amounts, and availability vary widely.</p>



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<p><a href="http://AChildWaits.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AChildWaits.org</a><br><a href="http://AdoptionHopeFoundation.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AdoptionHopeFoundation.org</a><br><a href="https://www.alwaysendure.com/adoptionaid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AlwaysEndure</a><br><a href="http://BrittanysHope.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BrittanysHope.org</a><br><a href="https://foreverhomefoundation.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ForeverHomeFoundation.com</a><br><a href="https://giftofadoption.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GiftofAdoption.org</a><br><a href="https://www.graftedfamilies.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GraftedFamilies.org</a><br><a href="https://www.helpusadopt.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HelpUsAdopt.org</a><br><a href="https://kanesgift.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KanesGift.org</a><br><a href="https://katelynsfund.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KatelynsFund.org</a><br><a href="https://sparrow-fund.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sparrow-Fund.org</a><br><br></p>
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<p><a href="https://openheartsfororphans.org/adoption-grants" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenHeartsForOrphans.org</a><br><a href="http://OathFund.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OathFund.org</a><br><a href="https://www.theemptycup.org/adoption-resources" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TheEmptyCup.org</a><br><a href="https://reecesrainbow.org/new-family/financing-your-adoption" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ReecesRainbow.org</a><br><a href="http://FundYourAdoption.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FundYourAdoption.org</a><br><a href="https://www.inspiringorphancare.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">InspiringOrphanCare.org</a><br><a href="http://GoldenDawnAA.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GoldenDawnAA.org</a><br><a href="https://www.thebuescherfoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TheBuescherFoundation.org</a><br><a href="https://cadefoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CadeFoundation.org</a><br><a href="https://puregiftofgod.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PureGiftofGod.org</a><br></p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-don-t-forget-to-ask-your-employer"><strong>Don&#8217;t forget to ask your employer.</strong></h3>



<p>Many families never think to ask, but some employers offer adoption reimbursement or adoption assistance after an adoption is finalized. Others may not have a formal policy yet—but that doesn&#8217;t always mean the answer is no. Sometimes the benefit simply hasn&#8217;t been requested, considered, or added to the employee handbook.</p>



<p>Ask your HR department whether your place of employment offers adoption assistance, reimbursement for qualified adoption expenses, paid leave for adoptive parents, or charitable matching gifts that could be directed toward an approved adoption fundraiser. Even if the answer is &#8220;not currently,&#8221; your question may open a door for your family—and for families who come after you.</p>



<p>Adoption-friendly workplaces often exist because someone was brave enough to ask.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fundraising-building-community-around-your-adoption"><strong>Fundraising: Building Community Around Your Adoption</strong></h3>



<p>Fundraising isn&#8217;t just about the money—it&#8217;s one of the most meaningful ways your friends, family, and community get to participate in bringing your child home. Think of it as inviting people into the story, not asking for charity.</p>



<p><strong>Before you launch anything, do three things:</strong> set a clear total goal, rank your fundraising options by effort vs. return, and think honestly about which ones you&#8217;d actually enjoy doing. Burnout is real. A fundraiser you&#8217;re passionate about will almost always outperform one you feel obligated to run.</p>



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<div class="wp-block-group is-style-padding-small has-lighter-blue-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-0706528e wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained" style="padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60)">
<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size">Before you plan a single event, we encourage families to start with a Lifesong matching grant—then write a letter. </p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size">The grant does something no event can: it gives your ask instant credibility. Givers know their gift is matched, fully accountable, and tax-deductible. Then your personal note—explaining the journey you&#8217;re on, what it costs, and how they can help—lands with the weight of an organization behind it, not just a family hoping people will trust them. </p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size">It doesn&#8217;t require a venue or a budget or a committee. It just requires your story, a matching grant, and the courage to send it.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-fundraiser-worth-its-own-mention-both-hands"><strong>One fundraiser worth its own mention: Both Hands</strong></h3>



<p><a href="http://bothhands.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Both Hands</a> is unlike anything else on this list. The idea is simple and beautiful: you gather a team of volunteers, identify a widow in your community who needs help, and spend a day serving her—painting, cleaning, landscaping, whatever she needs.</p>



<p>While you serve, your team raises funds through letters and a personal fundraising page. No overhead deducted. Every dollar goes to your adoption.</p>



<p>It&#8217;s James 1:27 in action—caring for widows and orphans in the same afternoon. Families who have done it say it&#8217;s one of the most meaningful days of their entire adoption journey, not just because of what it raises, but because of what it builds.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-here-are-a-few-more-events-to-consider"><strong>Here are a few more events to consider.</strong></h3>



<p>Auction<br>Basketball/pickleball tournament<br>Benefit concert<br>Bingo night<br>Garage sale<br>Puzzle game event<br>Spaghetti dinner</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-merchandise-sales"><strong>Ongoing merchandise sales</strong></h3>



<p>Several platforms make it easy to sell adoption-themed merchandise with zero upfront cost. <a href="https://www.bonfire.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bonfire.com</a> and <a href="http://FundTheNations.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FundTheNations.com</a> handle printing and fulfillment for t-shirts.</p>



<p>For coffee, <a href="https://gobena.coffee/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gobena Coffee</a> was actually built for this—it&#8217;s an adoption fundraising platform disguised as a coffee company, and a trusted Lifesong partner.</p>



<p>Join their <a href="https://gobena.coffee/learn/fundraise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fundraising program</a> and you&#8217;ll earn 50% profit on every item sold. The model is simple: collect individual orders from friends and family, submit them together as one wholesale order, and Gobena delivers to you within 2–3 business days so you can hand them off locally. It&#8217;s low-effort, repeatable, and keeps generating income long after your launch event is over.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-adoption-tax-credit"><strong>The Adoption Tax Credit</strong></h3>



<p><strong>The adoption tax credit is one of the most underutilized financial tools available to adoptive families</strong>—probably because it sounds complicated. It isn&#8217;t.</p>



<p>Unlike a deduction, which lowers your taxable income, a credit directly reduces the taxes you actually owe, dollar for dollar. It&#8217;s claimed in the year your adoption is finalized, and if you don&#8217;t use the full amount that year, you can carry the remainder forward for up to five additional years.</p>



<p>The adoption tax credit is worth up to $17,670 per child in 2026. Of that amount, up to $5,120 is refundable.</p>



<p>You may possibly receive it as a refund even if you owe little or nothing in taxes. Income phaseouts apply at higher earning levels, and the rules can change—so don&#8217;t navigate this alone. A tax professional familiar with adoption benefits can make sure you claim it correctly and don&#8217;t leave money on the table.</p>



<p>We recommend <a href="https://www.centralia-il-taxservice.com/our-staff/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bills Tax Service</a>, and specifically Becky Wilmoth</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-final-thought"><strong>One final thought.</strong></h3>



<p>Christian families who adopt will tell you: the fundraising was never just about the money. It was about watching God provide in ways they didn&#8217;t plan for, through people they didn&#8217;t expect, at moments when they weren&#8217;t sure they could keep going. </p>



<p>Every letter sent, every event hosted, every bag of coffee sold is an act of faith—a declaration that you believe a child belongs in your family before you can see exactly how it happens. That&#8217;s not just how adoptions get funded. That&#8217;s how faith grows. </p>



<p><strong>If God is leading you to adopt, start today. God will meet you there.</strong></p>



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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-left" id="h-intimidated-by-adoption-finances"><strong><strong>Intimidated by adoption finances?</strong></strong></h4>



<p class="has-text-align-left">If you’re beginning the adoption journey or currently in the fundraising process, we’d love to pray for you and support you. Reach out today. You are not alone.</p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-bright-blue-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://lifesong.org/adoption/apply/" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>APPLY TODAY</strong></a></div>
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<p></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/fund-an-adoption-in-2026/">How to Fund an Adoption in 2026</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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		<title>It’s Time to Dream | Liberia Update</title>
		<link>https://lifesong.org/2026/05/its-time-to-dream-liberia/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Oksana Murphy]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 14:12:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Country Update]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Liberia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifesong News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Orphan Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dreams]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[transition to adulthood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[university]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://lifesong.org/?p=1163758</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The orphaned and vulnerable children we serve in Liberia are living out their dreams today. They’re walking onto university campuses—with purpose, courage, and a deep trust in God. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/its-time-to-dream-liberia/">It&#8217;s Time to Dream | Liberia Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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<p><em>We don&#8217;t take for granted what a gift from God it is to see orphaned and vulnerable young adults in Liberia chasing their dreams. Many have completed a successful first semester of university. </em></p>



<p><em>Not long ago, many of the same children didn&#8217;t believe in a hopeful future. But because people who care about the course of their lives gave to support them, they were able to attend school and receive continued love and support into adulthood from our team. </em></p>



<p><em>Thank you for giving them a hopeful new start! </em></p>



<p><em>—Liberia Team</em></p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-orphaned-and-vulnerable-children-we-serve-in-liberia-are-living-out-their-dreams-today"><strong>The orphaned and vulnerable children we serve in Liberia are living out their dreams today.</strong></h2>



<p><strong>They’re walking onto university campuses—with purpose, courage, and a deep trust in God.</strong></p>



<p>And you’re part of that story. </p>



<p>But just 12 years prior, our team wondered what would happen when these children were all grown up. Would they be stuck in patterns of survival, or could they break free from the cycle of poverty? </p>



<p>There wasn’t a clear roadmap—just faith in God’s promise from Isaiah 60:22: <em>“When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen.”</em></p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1333" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026.03-Liberia-–-Day-2-00286.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1163766"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Above: Princess studies accounting in the student transition house where she lives.<br>Top: Children we serve in Liberia attend school. <br></figcaption></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-today-we-re-seeing-that-promise-come-to-life"><strong>Today, we’re seeing that promise come to life.</strong></h3>



<p><strong>Graduates from our program are studying to become successful electricians, accountants, educators, nurses, cosmetologists, public health workers, and more. </strong></p>



<p>Famatta remembers a time when her future felt unclear after losing her parents. In her words—</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“Years ago, when I lost my parents, I didn’t know what I would become. But I had hope that I could pursue my dreams if I worked hard and chose God.”</strong></em> </p>



<p>Today, she’s studying education, determined to help other children discover the same hope.</p>



<p>And what&#8217;s amazing is these students aren’t just thinking about themselves—they’re thinking about their community. Princess, an accounting student, shares—</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“Going to university will help me sustain myself—and not only myself, but my country.”</strong></em></p>



<p>Jerry, who completed our vocational program in electricity, is now studying electrical engineering at university. He is also growing, not just his skills but his community. He shares—</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“I’m very happy to go to university because I’m able to learn and build a network of friendship.”</strong></em></p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1333" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026.03-Liberia-–-Day-2-00169.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1163768"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jerry leads a Bible study with other orphaned and vulnerable young men. </figcaption></figure>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-these-aren-t-just-career-paths-they-re-callings"><strong>These aren&#8217;t just career paths. They&#8217;re callings. </strong></h3>



<p>And for many, the journey to this moment has been marked by deep hardship. Garmai is studying public health. In her words—</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“It’s like a dream for me… I was running from Ebola years ago, and now I’m being prepared to save lives when disease breaks out again.”</strong></em></p>



<p>Delight, who also lost her parents to Ebola, shares—</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“My dream is to fight the diseases that took my parents.”</strong></em></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-is-what-it-looks-like-when-orphans-become-leaders"><strong>This is what it looks like when orphans become leaders. </strong></h3>



<p>They begin to look outward and make an impact. They mentor younger children. They dream of opening a school. They talk about strengthening Liberia&#8217;s economy, serving in hospitals, and spreading access to electricity across an impoverished country. </p>



<p><strong>They’re stepping into the purpose God has for them.</strong></p>



<p>Twelve students have already completed their first semester and begun their second, pressing forward with determination and faith. And this is only the beginning. </p>



<p>When God moves at the right time, the impact reaches far beyond what we can see. </p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-pray-for-liberia"><strong>Pray for Liberia</strong></h3>



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<li><strong>Praise</strong> God that 12 young adults we serve in Liberia are attending university. </li>



<li><strong>Praise</strong> God that the young adults we serve are learning skills in accounting, electrical engineering, education, public health, nursing, cosmetology, and more. </li>



<li><strong>Pray </strong>for continued success in their studies. Pray that they can graduate with degrees in a few years. </li>



<li><strong>Pray</strong> for provision of meaningful employement after they complete their studies. </li>



<li><strong>Praise</strong> God that young adults we serve are positively impacting their communities with their new skills. </li>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Join our prayer team to receive monthly prayer requests &amp; praises from across our ministry.</strong></p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-navy-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://lifesong.org/prayer-team/" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>JOIN THE PRAYER TEAM</strong></a></div>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-will-you-help-orphaned-and-vulnerable-children-in-liberia-experience-the-hope-of-the-gospel"><strong>Will you help orphaned and vulnerable children in Liberia experience the hope of the Gospel?</strong></h4>



<p class="has-text-align-center">When you give to Lifesong, you show orphaned and vulnerable children they are <em>seen, known, and loved</em> through Gospel-centered holistic care<em>.</em> Thanks to TMG Foundation, <strong>100% of your gift goes directly to helping orphaned and vulnerable children. </strong></p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-red-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://give.lifesong.org/lifesong/liberia" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>GIVE TODAY</strong></a></div>
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<p></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/its-time-to-dream-liberia/">It&#8217;s Time to Dream | Liberia Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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		<title>Beyond Foster Care: How My Family’s Farm Is Helping Young Women Flourish</title>
		<link>https://lifesong.org/2026/05/beyond-foster-care-my-familys-farm/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Trisha Priebe]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 19:24:12 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Foster Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifesong News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Advocate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[foster care awareness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[foster care awareness month]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[My Family's Farm]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://lifesong.org/?p=1163134</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Every year in the United States, more than 23,000 young people leave foster care without the support of a permanent family. </p>
<p>That's why we are so grateful for My Family's Farm, a Lifesong ministry partner serving young women who are aging out of foster care.</p>
<p>Watch their story.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/beyond-foster-care-my-familys-farm/">Beyond Foster Care: How My Family&#8217;s Farm Is Helping Young Women Flourish</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-every-year-in-the-united-states">Every year in the United States,</h2>



<p>more than 23,000 young people leave foster care without the support of a permanent family.</p>



<p>Which is just a statistic until you picture one teenager standing at the edge of adulthood with no parent to call. No family table to return to. No one saying, &#8220;Text me when you get there,&#8221; or, &#8220;You can always come home.&#8221;</p>



<p>And for too many young people, stepping into adulthood without family does not lead to freedom. It leads to heartbreaking vulnerability. To homelessness, early pregnancy, trafficking, incarceration, and the exhausting burden of trying to survive alone.</p>



<p>That&#8217;s why we are so grateful for <strong><a href="https://lifesong.org/my-familys-farm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">My Family&#8217;s Farm</a></strong>, a Lifesong ministry partner serving young women who are aging out of foster care by giving them exactly what every young adult needs:</p>



<p id="watch">A place to call home.<br>A people to call family.</p>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="A Home for Aged Out Foster Youth | My Family’s Farm Story" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1IpxSvMZJg4?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-a-program"><strong>More Than a Program</strong></h3>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“We&#8217;re creating a Christ-centered community where young women don&#8217;t just live—they belong.”</strong></em><br>—Kendall Montgomery, Founder and Family Steward</p>



<p>On an 8-acre working farm in Austin, Texas, young women are welcomed into the steady, everyday rhythms of life together. Here, they care for animals. They help with chores, share meals, attend life-skills classes, and gain work experience. They learn responsibilities and communication and what it means to be part of a healthy community.</p>



<p>After a 90-day stay in the guest room in the main house, each young woman is invited to sign a lease for a tiny home. She then begins paying monthly rent that increases slowly over time to mirror real-world cost of living, helping her build responsibility and confidence. Half of each payment is saved for her in a high-yield account, and when she completes her time at the farm, she receives the full savings—often nearly $20,000—toward housing, a car, or education as she launches into independence.</p>



<p>It&#8217;s practical. It&#8217;s ordinary. And somehow, by the grace of God, it is also deeply healing.</p>



<p>Because sometimes healing looks like therapy and counseling, and sometimes healing looks like sitting down at a dinner table every night with people who know your name, notice your absence, and expect you to show up again tomorrow.</p>



<p><strong>Sometimes <em>belonging</em> is built one meal, one chore, and one conversation at a time.</strong></p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-toward-a-future"><strong>Growing Toward a Future</strong></h3>



<p>While living at My Family&#8217;s Farm, each young woman receives personalized mentorship and support as she works toward goals in six key areas:</p>



<p>Education<br>Health<br>Spiritual growth<br>Finances<br>Relationships<br>Life skills</p>



<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Kendall-Montgomery-MFF.007-1200x675.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1163750" srcset="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Kendall-Montgomery-MFF.007-1200x675.jpeg 1200w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Kendall-Montgomery-MFF.007-800x450.jpeg 800w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Kendall-Montgomery-MFF.007-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Kendall-Montgomery-MFF.007.jpeg 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure>



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<p><strong>But these are not just boxes to check. They are pieces of a life being rebuilt.</strong></p>



<p>A young woman may pursue college, trade school, or a certification program. She may learn to create a budget, pay bills, save money, or plan for housing. She may begin addressing her health, practicing better communication, setting boundaries, or opening her heart to Scripture, prayer, and time with the Lord.</p>



<p>And slowly, steadily, she grows.</p>



<p><strong>The goal at My Family&#8217;s Farm is not simply survival</strong>, <strong>it&#8217;s <em>flourishing</em>.</strong></p>



<p>The goal is for young women who have known instability—<em>through no fault of their own</em>—to discover that their past does not get the final word over their future.</p>



<p>God is still writing.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-a-farm"><strong>Why a Farm?</strong></h3>



<p>There is something beautiful about a farm, isn&#8217;t there?</p>



<p>Nothing grows instantly, and almost nothing grows without care.</p>



<p>Seeds have to be planted long before there is anything to harvest. Soil has to be tended before fruit ever appears. Animals have to be fed whether the weather is lovely or miserable, whether you feel ready or tired, whether the work feels rewarding that day or simply necessary.</p>



<p><strong>A farm teaches patience in ways a lecture never could.</strong></p>



<p>Farms remind us that growth is often slow, hidden work—that roots are forming long before anything breaks through the surface, and that some of the most important things God is doing may not be visible yet.</p>



<p>Day by day, chore by chore, meal by meal, conversation by conversation, young women are invited into the steady rhythms of responsibility, belonging, and care. They learn that they are needed. They learn that their work matters. And they learn that growth takes time, but it is possible.</p>



<p>And in the middle of all that ordinary, faithful farm life, God is doing what only He can do—cultivating hope, restoring dignity, and helping young women who have aged out of foster care believe that their stories are still growing toward something good.</p>



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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-left" id="give"><strong>Support Foster Care Youth Today.</strong></h4>



<p class="has-text-align-left">This National Foster Care Awareness Month, you can help young women aging out of foster care experience what every young adult needs: steady support, practical guidance, Gospel-centered love, and a place to call home.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-left">When you give to Lifesong, you show orphaned and vulnerable children they are <em>seen, known, and loved</em> through Gospel-centered, holistic care<em>.</em> Thanks to TMG Foundation, <strong>100% of your gift goes directly to helping orphaned and vulnerable children. </strong></p>



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<p></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/beyond-foster-care-my-familys-farm/">Beyond Foster Care: How My Family&#8217;s Farm Is Helping Young Women Flourish</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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		<title>Melaku, Aviation Engineer in the Making | Ethiopia Update</title>
		<link>https://lifesong.org/2026/05/melaku-aviation-engineer-in-the-making-ethiopia/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Cecilia Fulmer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 14:12:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Country Update]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ethiopia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifesong News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Orphan Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[aviation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[promising future]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vocation]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://lifesong.org/?p=1163575</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Over the years, with consistent guidance and encouragement, Melaku has grown into a focused, disciplined, and determined young man. Recently, he successfully passed the entrance exam for Aviation University and is now studying Aviation Engineering. </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/melaku-aviation-engineer-in-the-making-ethiopia/">Melaku, Aviation Engineer in the Making | Ethiopia Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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<p><em>It&#8217;s a joy to see the children we serve in Ethiopia grow into young adults with hope and purpose, ready to step into the future and give back to others. Their lives remind us that even small acts of love and care can make a lasting difference.</em></p>



<p><em>Thank you for standing with us to support orphaned and vulnerable children in Ethiopia. Your support is helping change lives in ways that reach far beyond what we can see.</em></p>



<p><em>—Ethiopia Team</em></p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-melaku-came-to-our-team-in-ethiopia-in-2010-carrying-burdens-no-child-should-ever-have-to-bear"><strong>Melaku* came to our team in Ethiopia in 2010, carrying burdens no child should ever have to bear.</strong></h2>



<p>His father passed away when he was only two years old, leaving his mother to raise him alone. Soon after, tragedy struck again when his mother suffered a bull attack that required major surgery. </p>



<p>Because of her physical condition and the overwhelming challenges she faced, she became unable to care for him and felt she had no path forward. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-was-then-that-melaku-joined-the-lifesong-family"><strong>It was then that Melaku joined the Lifesong family.</strong></h3>



<p>Melaku began attending one of our schools, where he received far more than an education. <strong>He was welcomed into a community that provided Gospel-centered, holistic care, including nutritious meals, safe housing, clothing, and emotional and spiritual support.&nbsp;</strong></p>



<p>Over the years, with consistent guidance and encouragement, Melaku has grown into a focused, disciplined, and determined young man. </p>



<p><strong>Most recently, he successfully passed the entrance exam for Aviation University and is now studying Aviation Engineering.</strong></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-is-a-remarkable-achievement"><strong>This is a remarkable achievement.</strong></h3>



<p>Only a small number of students pass this highly competitive exam, making Melaku’s success even more meaningful. The opportunity to study at such a prestigious and specialized university opens many doors to a promising future. </p>



<p>In the words of a ministry leader—</p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong>“There is nothing that brings us more joy than seeing a child who was once orphaned and without hope now stepping boldly into a bright future.”</strong></em></p>



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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1333" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/ethiopia-melaku4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-1163666"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Above: Melaku (back left in green shirt) wraps his arms around his friends and mentor on our ministry campus. <br>Top: Today, Melaku is studying Aviation Engineering. </figcaption></figure>



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<p><strong>Melaku&#8217;s story reminds us what happens when Gospel-centered, holistic care meets intentional discipleship.</strong> As our team in Ethiopia provides stability, direction, and hope, children like Melaku can embrace the opportunities before them.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead-melaku-hopes-to-give-back-to-orphaned-and-vulnerable-children-like-him"><strong>Looking ahead, Melaku hopes to give back to orphaned and vulnerable children like him.</strong></h3>



<p>He dreams of using his gifts and abilities to become part of the same mission that once changed his own life. He shares— </p>



<p class="is-style-font-2 has-bright-blue-color has-text-color has-medium-large-font-size"><em><strong><em><strong><mark style="background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)" class="has-inline-color has-bright-blue-color">“Lifesong has been my family, my school, and the place where I found my faith and purpose. I want to use my life to serve others, just as I was served.”</mark></strong></em></strong></em></p>



<p>We are incredibly proud of Melaku&#8217;s hard work, perseverance, and faith. His journey shows the lasting impact of Gospel-centered, holistic care and hope-filled support. </p>



<p><em>*names changed to protect the identities of the children we serve</em></p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-pray-for-ethiopia"><strong>Pray for Ethiopia</strong></h3>



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<li><strong>Praise</strong> God for the transformation in Melaku&#8217;s life from hardship to hope and opportunity. </li>



<li><strong>Pray </strong>for Melaku as he begins his studies in Aviation Engineering—that he would have wisdom, focus, and perseverance.</li>



<li><strong>Praise</strong> God for Melaku&#8217;s desire to give back and serve others. </li>



<li><strong>Pray</strong> for orphaned and vulnerable children in Ethiopia to receive safety, education, and loving holistic care.</li>



<li><strong>Praise</strong> God for the opportunity to provide education, shelter, discipleship, and support to vulnerable children in Ethiopia. </li>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong>Join our prayer team to receive monthly prayer requests &amp; praises from across our ministry.</strong></p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-navy-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://lifesong.org/prayer-team/" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>JOIN THE PRAYER TEAM</strong></a></div>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-will-you-help-orphaned-and-vulnerable-children-in-ethiopia-experience-the-hope-of-the-gospel"><strong>Will you help orphaned and vulnerable children in Ethiopia experience the hope of the Gospel?</strong></h4>



<p class="has-text-align-center">When you give to Lifesong, you show orphaned and vulnerable children they are <em>seen, known, and loved</em> through Gospel-centered holistic care<em>.</em> Thanks to TMG Foundation, <strong>100% of your gift goes directly to helping orphaned and vulnerable children. </strong></p>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-red-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://give.lifesong.org/lifesong/ethiopia" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>GIVE TODAY</strong></a></div>
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<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/melaku-aviation-engineer-in-the-making-ethiopia/">Melaku, Aviation Engineer in the Making | Ethiopia Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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		<title>When Mother’s Day Hurts</title>
		<link>https://lifesong.org/2026/05/when-mothers-day-hurts/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Trisha Priebe]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 07:43:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Lifesong News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adoption]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Encouragement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Foster Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mother]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mother's Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[motherhood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Waiting]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://lifesong.org/?p=1159596</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Whether you're celebrating or grieving or waiting or somewhere in that tender, unnamed in-between place where most of us actually live: here are three things to hold onto this weekend.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/when-mothers-day-hurts/">When Mother&#8217;s Day Hurts</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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<figure class="animate-when-visible fade-in wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://lifesong.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/lightstock_80363_small_reed-1024x683.jpg" alt="Mother's Day" class="wp-image-1132277"/></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-we-be-honest-about-something-for-a-minute">Can we be honest about something for a minute?</h2>



<p><strong>Mother&#8217;s Day is complicated. </strong>It&#8217;s flowers and sticky-fingered cards that say, &#8220;I love you, Mommy,&#8221; in handwriting that looks like a seismograph reading. It&#8217;s also empty arms and quiet grief and feelings that absolutely do not fit inside a pastel Hallmark envelope, no matter how hard you try to stuff them in there.</p>



<p><strong>It&#8217;s the wild, laughing joy of babies finally home—and the soft, steady ache of ones who never made it.</strong></p>



<p>Some of us are walking into this weekend absolutely beaming. Some of us are white-knuckling it. And a whole lot of us are doing both at the same time, which is exhausting and very on-brand for motherhood in general.</p>



<p>So here are three things I want us to hold onto this weekend—whether we&#8217;re celebrating or grieving or waiting or somewhere in that tender, unnamed in-between place where most of us actually live:</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-motherhood-takes-a-thousand-different-forms-and-most-of-them-don-t-come-with-a-birth-certificate"><strong>1. Motherhood takes a thousand different forms, and most of them don&#8217;t come with a birth certificate.</strong></h3>



<p>Can we just say this out loud? </p>



<p>Not every mother has a delivery room story. Some of the fiercest, most ferocious mamas I know have never given birth—not once. They showed up through foster care, <a href="https://lifelinechild.org/adoption/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adoption</a>, mentorship, spiritual mama-bearing, or just the sheer stubborn force of love that refused to quit.</p>



<p>Some carried a baby for a season and made the most heartbreakingly brave decision a person can make—choosing adoption, choosing a child&#8217;s future over their own comfort. Some are still in the waiting room, paperwork stacked on the kitchen table, prayers worn smooth from repetition, hope gripped with shaking hands. Some are mothering in a million unseen ways—pouring into other people&#8217;s kids, holding broken stories, showing up without applause or a brunch reservation. </p>



<p><strong>I know these mothers firsthand.</strong> The women in my life—my bio mom, foster mom, adoptive mom, and mentors—refused to let me drift. Motherhood is not limited to DNA or a delivery room or whoever gets the carnation this Sunday morning.</p>



<p><strong>If your life is marked by sacrificial love for children—if you are showing up, pouring out, letting go, holding on, standing in the gap when nobody asked you to—you are mothering. Full stop.</strong></p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-love-doesn-t-always-look-like-celebration"><strong>2. Love doesn&#8217;t always look like celebration.</strong></h3>



<p>For so many people, Mother&#8217;s Day just magnifies the ache. The one that&#8217;s been there all year—politely staying in the background—suddenly decides to take up the whole room.</p>



<p>It&#8217;s the mom who buried a child. The woman who longs for a baby she hasn&#8217;t yet held. The birth mom wondering today—right now—how her child is doing, whether they&#8217;re happy, whether <em>they know</em>. The adoptive mom navigating big feelings and harder questions and a love so deep it sometimes scares her. The foster mom who kissed a forehead goodbye last week and cried the entire way home and then got up and did it again because that&#8217;s just who she is.</p>



<p><strong>Here&#8217;s what I want you to hear: just because motherhood hurts doesn&#8217;t mean it isn&#8217;t love.</strong> In fact, it might mean it&#8217;s the realest love in the room.</p>



<p>Jesus didn&#8217;t hold back His love to protect Himself from pain. He walked straight into it—eyes open, arms wide. </p>



<p>Love that grieves, that sacrifices, that lets go when letting go is the most loving thing, that keeps showing up even when it&#8217;s hard and costly and nobody&#8217;s watching—that is Gospel love. That is cross-shaped, resurrection-paved, absolutely Heaven-honoring love.</p>



<p>If your love feels heavy this weekend, you are in the very best company. And you are not grieving alone.</p>



<p><strong><em>&#8220;The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit&#8221;</em>—Psalm 34:18.</strong></p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-god-sees-you"><strong>3. God sees you.</strong> </h3>



<p><strong>I want you to actually believe that for a second.</strong></p>



<p>Maybe no one gives you a card this weekend. Maybe your story makes people go quiet and fidgety and suddenly very interested in their phones. (I have been there. I know that particular silence. It has a specific weight to it.)</p>



<p>But hear me: God sees you. You are not invisible to Him. Your story is not small. Your love is not wasted, not one drop of it. </p>



<p>You are not too complicated for the One who made you—which, honestly, is saying something, because some of us are <em>a lot</em>.</p>



<p>Remember Hagar? Cast out, alone, forgotten by literally everyone who was supposed to care—except she wasn&#8217;t forgotten, not by the One who actually mattered. Out of the wilderness, she encountered God and gave Him a name she created herself: <em>El Roi. </em>The God Who Sees Me.</p>



<p><strong>That same God sees you this Mother&#8217;s Day weekend. </strong>In the heartache. In the sacrifice. In the brave, unseen, unglamorous, beautiful work of loving like Jesus.</p>



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<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-listen-i-know-this-is-a-complicated-day"><strong>Listen—I know this is a complicated day.</strong></h4>



<p>It stirs up things that stayed quiet all year. It brings real joy for some and real sorrow for others, and the tricky part is those people are often sitting side by side—at church, at the same brunch table, in the same family group text.</p>



<p>But friend? As painful as it may be, It is just a day. One day on a calendar. It does not get to define your worth or your motherhood or your value in the Kingdom of God. It holds no power over your future or the goodness God is still—<em>still</em>—writing into your story.</p>



<p>So from the very bottom of my heart—whether this weekend finds you holding babies close, or holding yourself together, or both—</p>



<p>I see you. He sees you. And that love? It&#8217;s not going anywhere.</p>



<p>Happy Mother&#8217;s Day.</p>



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<h4 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-considering-adoption-we-can-help"><strong>Considering Adoption? We can help.</strong></h4>



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<div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-bright-blue-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button" href="https://lifesong.org/adoption/" style="padding-top:20px;padding-right:40px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:40px" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>LEARN MORE</strong><strong style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; letter-spacing: inherit; text-transform: inherit; display: inline !important;"></strong><strong style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; letter-spacing: inherit; text-transform: inherit; display: inline !important;"></strong></a></div>
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<p>The post <a href="https://lifesong.org/2026/05/when-mothers-day-hurts/">When Mother&#8217;s Day Hurts</a> appeared first on <a href="https://lifesong.org">Lifesong for Orphans</a>.</p>
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