We are so grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting Simona as she serves alongside our partners at Open Home Foundation International in Kolkata, India.
Over the past few months, Simona has been investing in the lives of children and families through community outreach, children's programmes, English learning activities, games, singing, and practical support. Through these simple but consistent moments, trust is growing and meaningful relationships are being built within the community.
One of the greatest encouragements has been seeing the confidence of the children increase. Many are becoming more engaged in activities, learning new English phrases, and growing in their ability to connect positively with others. These small steps are making a significant difference.
Alongside the children's programmes, the team continues to support families through monthly medical camps, parent meetings, and community events. Through these initiatives, they are creating safe spaces for children to learn, grow, and experience care within their communities.
ANSWERED PRAYERS AND OPEN DOORS
Over recent months, there have been both significant challenges and incredible answers to prayer.
Earlier this year, changes within the local government resulted in the ministry losing access to four tuition centres, creating uncertainty for both the children and their families. We are grateful to report that after much prayer and perseverance, all of the centres are now fully reopened and operational.
What an incredible answer to prayer! Thank you to everyone who stood with Simona and the ministry during this season.
Another exciting development has been a period care initiative designed to support the health, dignity, and school attendance of girls in the programme. After approaching a local company for support, Simona received a generous response, with the company offering a 30% discount on products for the ministry.
This provision will help support more than 50 girls, as well as teachers and family members connected to the programme.
CONTINUING TO STAND IN PRAYER
While there is much to celebrate, there are ongoing challenges facing many families in the community. Poverty, limited resources, and complex daily needs remain a reality for many.
Recently, the area experienced both an acid attack and a stabbing involving families connected to the programme. In addition, many families have been affected by extreme heat, resulting in fevers and dehydration.
Please continue to pray for God's peace, protection, and healing over these families and the wider community.
LOOKING AHEAD
Through the generosity of supporters, Simona has also begun setting aside funds toward a future orphanage project in North India. While this is a long-term vision that may take years to develop, every step forward represents an opportunity to create lasting impact for vulnerable children.
As Simona recently shared:
"This season has reminded me how powerful simple consistency and presence can be. Even small acts of encouragement, care, and attention can make a meaningful impact in a child's life. I'm continuing to learn the importance of patience, flexibility, and trusting God daily in both the joyful and challenging moments of ministry."
And as she says when looking towards the future:
"Even small seeds count."
HOW YOU CAN PRAY
Please join us in praying for:
- Thanking God that all tuition centres have reopened and classes have resumed.
- Wisdom, patience, and strength in daily ministry.
- Deepening and strengthening of relationships with children and families.
- Peace, protection, and healing for families affected by recent violence.
- Children and families experiencing illness due to extreme heat.
- Lasting impact through the medical camps and declaring health, protection for the children.
- Continued provision for practical needs, resources, and the period care initiative.
- Wisdom, favour, and provision as plans for the future orphanage project continue to develop.
- The love and hope of Christ to be clearly seen through every interaction.
Thank you, church, for your continued prayers, generosity, and encouragement towards Simona. Together, we are helping bring hope, care, and the love of Jesus to children and families who need it most.