Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”  Matthew 19:14

Can you imagine a culture where babies are killed for being born with a handicap or for simply being a twin?  Believe it or not, there are still places in Africa where this still happens, not to mention the number of children who are orphaned by HIV/AIDS.  Working with Gospel Herald Ministries, UBIA helps provide food, clothing and shelter for orphans and vulnerable children in the Kim Jones Children’s Home, located in Sembeti near the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.  The children are raised in a family-type atmosphere, receive schooling, medical care and, most importantly, spiritual guidance.

When God calls us to help the fatherless, He is not just asking us to send money.  Particularly in Africa where relationship is considered as important as physical needs, it is also important for these children that we meet their basic needs for love and affection. Who quells their fears and tells them how precious they are to God?  How can they learn to love when love has been snatched away from them?  Our first line of impact is the home itself.  Pastor Rumishaeli Lyimo is called Baba (father) and his wife, Esther Lyimo is Mama.  They stay in the home and, along with the matron, social worker and preschool teacher, provide love, nurturing and guidance.  Our second line of impact is the Sponsor relationship.  Sponsors provide financial support, but also form personal relationships, write to and pray for their sponsored child. The children write to and pray for their sponsors.  Lifelong relationships are formed.  We also offer periodic trips to Tanzania where sponsors can visit and meet the children personally.